Why I Eat Raw Food
“This is why I care so much about raw food. If you keep the temp beneath 116 degrees, the enzymes within the food stay alive, the vitamins don’t get denatured and because it is a more natural way to eat, it helps our digestion. It helps the absorption of the correct nutrients.” -Dr. Mehmet Oz
I listened to Dr. Oz talk about eating a raw food diet to a man who was over weight, and running a very high risk of early death because of his diet. His brother had already passed away from a massive heart attack. As I sat and listened, I thought about what brought me to the raw food diet. How it makes sense to me and how much better I feel when I am eating a raw diet.
My own brother passed away at the age of 45 from a massive heart attack. He was over weight, had developed type two diabetes, and smoked. He was a funny, warm human being with a daughter and a new puppy. He thought he was coming down with the flu and with in less than an hour, he was dead. They found him laying on the ground, next to his truck. He didn’t have a chance. Or did he?
At 47, I found myself over weight, short of breath, having chest pains, and joint pains. I had been put on a prescription for Prilosac because every time I ate, I had terrible acid reflux. I had been athletic all of my life and hardly had ever even taken an aspirin. But something happened to me when I wasn’t paying attention. My diet caught up with me and I was scared.
My brother didn’t realize what was happening. I am sure he had experienced some of the same symptoms I was having. It was too late for him, it wasn’t too late for me. I knew it was time for a change.
Since going raw, I have eliminated all of my symptoms. I still have periods when my diet goes to hell (like this Christmas) and all the symptoms immediately come flooding back. It is pretty profound and an amazing that my body so eagerly lets me know that it doesn’t approve of my choices. I always find my way back to raw food.
My brother no longer has a choice. I do. I choose raw.
jessie R wrote on March 25, 2010
Thanks Susan for your story. You are an inspiration and a true blessing.. Thank you for helping us.
Warmly,
Jessie R.
Melissa wrote on March 25, 2010
I’m very sorry about your brother. Your story is truly inspirational! Good for you for not letting it happen to you and changing your life:) Thank you for sharing and many blessings to you!
Nancy Zare, WellnessWiz wrote on March 25, 2010
That’s an eye-opener. Although I don’t have such a dramatic story, I’ve chosen to eat healthy (note, raw is not the goal, healthy is. Right now I’m nearly 100% raw because it’s working and I feel terrific) to prevent illness such as heart disease and cancer. The bonus is that I’ve got lots of energy and feel great.
Maha wrote on March 25, 2010
Everyone has a story or reason they are trying to improve their health with raw food, thank you for sharing yours. You have helped many with your new found health and hope the best for you and your niece.
Elizabeth wrote on March 25, 2010
What an inspiring story, Susan. You touch the lives of many. I am so sorry for the loss of your brother. You changed your life & in turn have changed the lives of others–what a gift that is! Warm wishes, Elizabeth
Pure2Raw Twins wrote on March 25, 2010
Sorry to hear about your brother. Love learning more about your story and why you went raw! Very inspiring 🙂 xoxo
bitt wrote on March 24, 2010
So sorry about your brother. Many would chose to ignore their own symptoms. You took a stand.
Erin @ Living and Loving In L.A. wrote on March 24, 2010
Susan!
That’s such a great story. I’m so proud of you for turning your life around and being an inspiration for others like myself.
Big hugs,
Erin