Need help . . . wish I could quit!

[julesmoz]

Hi, all :)

I have been 100% raw for about 8 months, and have experienced a level of health and vitality I didn't know was possible! However, the Raw lifestyle has been incredibly trying for me. It takes me much longer to pack my food for the day (I'm gone from home all day) than it did with cooked. I lead a very social life, and constantly find myself in social situations that involve food. Times that would normally be a treat (because I wouldn't have to cook) are now a huge inconvenience - not to mention how tiring it gets to explain my "extreme" diet over and over again.

Cooking is one of my passions, and I savor fine food like people savor fine wine. So my question is this: have any of you cut back to 75/80% raw after being 100% for a while? What were your experiences?

I have experimented with eating a small amount of cooked food over the past few days. It has definitely taken away the edge that I feel when I'm 100%! I've felt mildly blah, but I'm wondering if it's because my body hasn't had ANY cooked for the past 8 months. Do you think this blah feeling will go away after I've eaten 75/80% for a while?

Thank you so much!

[Sharon in Colorado]

I am with you (on the social issue)!

I don't mind going to restaurants, parties or general large gatherings, but getting "invited" to someone's house (someone new who doesn't know about me) always stresses me out.

The last time worked out well because they used to be vegetarians and didn't make a fuss over me, but I really dread having to "explain" or even say I'm a vegetarian because they'll come out with some cooked thing with a lot of cheese, eggs or cooked grains thinking they did a great job and expecting me to eat it.

The best way to handle it is say you just eat fruits and veggies, and bring something. If they don't want you to bring anything, then bring something for yourself.

The biggest challenge I've had is with my Korean master and his wife, as it seems even though Koreans eat healthy, there is very little fresh or raw, everything seems to be cooked or fermented.

[mel123]

i can give you my opinion, but i am not this is a conversation for this board. if you would like to chat e-mail me at imani7191@yahoo.com...

[luckitri]

Well I think that it is a subject for this board because many of us have this problem. What is raw fast food that will stay OK in the cooler in the car in AZ heat (yeah I put an ice pack in but this heat will go through anything). Only thing that stays decent for raw fast food to take with me that I know of yet is carrots. I am constantly tempted at work. Sometimes I go through all these negative emotions because I am jealous that they don't get sick from their SAD food and I want some! Worse - last night I couldn't eat my salad - the thought of it made me nauseous. So today for work I packed cabbage, cilantro, pine nuts, yellow squash (summer kind), carrots, radishes and more and I honestly couldn't eat much of it. My spouse is feeling better enough that even though he has a home nurse he went to the store and bought alot of my favorite SAD. He argues about it all the time....so when I lose my interest in vegetables plus all this pressure - I am in trouble and I have nowhere else to take it but here.....anyone else would laugh at me. My son and my husband both told me - "told ya" "I knew it wouldn't last" and they are snickering at me even though they have been impressed with my little bit of weight loss and my increased energy and vitality. Julesmoz - I don't think the blah feeling will go away - I had SAD last night and I sure could feel it - I feel it every time and I have not been doing it this long - I just never realized that my food was making me so sick! I guess it is just a matter of how much sick you are willing to tolerate. This is a slippery slope to be on.

[dreamrawalwz]

Could you bring in a cooler to work and keep it in your office or cubical or wherever possible? To make it quick just bring simple pieces of fruit /veggie sticks/ bags of nuts or seeds and do mono meals while you're at the office?

If you're feeling a level of health why cut back? I never go to social situations, but could you eat before hand and or bring something with you? I guess since i've never been in your shoes I don't know what it's like. I assume most people if you say "i have dietary restrictions, do you mind if i bring my own food?" would understand. I'm also sure MOST restaurants have salads so you just have something heavier if needed before or after. If you're invited to someone's house suggest that you'll bring a veggie/fruit platter to share with the group. I'm sure if you brought it they'd eat it!

If I were I wouldn't cut back. This is your health and about you, not them...know what I mean?

[Sharon in Colorado]

i can give you my opinion, but i am not this is a conversation for this board. if you would like to chat e-mail me at imani7191@yahoo.com...

I think this is a different case - trying to help out someone struggling, rather than telling them to eat cooked or supporting their eating cooked.

[lissomllama]

I feel that a person is either raw or not raw. Eating any cooked food is still eating cooked food. I understand that transition is hard but you have to make a choice. Eating mostly raw simly won't give you the results you're looking for. Cooked food in any amount is bad for the body and not natural at all. No one is going to tell you how to live or that you can't eat this or that, but most people on this board support a 100% raw lifestyle and we appreciate the time it takes to get there as well. If you need time to transition, then take that time. But Eventually it seems like you'll need to make a choice.

Why can't you be social and live your life without eating cooked? Most restaurants have a salad and more and more places are geting salad and fruit bars. Socializing and eating are two different things and there is no law that says we have to combine them. I'm saying that this isn't impossible at all, it's all up to the individual, no one, not your friends, parents, partner etc. can ever make you not eat raw, in the end, it is your hand that brings the food to your mouth, so if you want to eat cooked, eat cooked. If you want to eat raw, eat raw but I promise you, raw is what will bring you life, happiness, health and beauty.

You'll be fine, Just transition a little slower if your body is telling you to.

[spicyfull]

You are to be Congratulated for 8 months under your belt. Hope you work it out, you have been given lots of great advice and the decision is yours.

Some things worth doing takes work and planning plus preparing...............

[Regen]

"Cooking is one of my passions, and I savor fine food like people savor fine wine."

Mine too! Before going raw, I spent 3 years as a Weight watcher (and lost 42 pounds which I struggled to maintain.) Anyway, i completely lost my desire to cook and strated eating more convenience foods that were packaged and measured for me.


Being raw has re-awakened my interest in preparing food - but this only happened when i invested in some books and a dehydrator. Have you got these?

Need to name-drop for a moment
Raw food Real World - the pictures make me salivate and I've now tried more recipes from it than from any of my cooked books (and I've got lots)
Rawvolution - again nicely presented with pictures that sent me to the kitchen

On this site - posted pictures - inspirational - thank you eveyone who takes the time to share.

I know it's difficult when busy to prepare food, but if you see it as a hobby or leisure activity... I find the soaking and sprouting to be the most difficult to co-ordinate.

One of my best raw weeks was when I was on holiday and my cooking equipments was a bowl, knife, fork and plate. I bought food each day and kept it really simple - a punnet of blueberries, FIGS!, avocado, then bought juices and smoothies from juice bars. Could you get packs of washed salad and other raw convenience foods?


This is a bit rambling. Please tell us more about your situation - there's a wealth of fantastic experience here on this board. Someone in another post explained that situations like this can be positively regarded as learning experiences (and we know they aren't always pleasant.)

Best wishes

[Rawmommie]

I know how you feel, but basically it just comes down to making a choice about which is more important.

The blah feeling will not go away, but you will get used to it again and FORGET how wonderful, enlightened, free, etc. that you felt raw.

Can you enjoy raw cooking & creating the way you used to with cooked? There are lots of recipes you can play around with and create with raw food?

[dreamrawalwz]

I forgot to add, you can UNcook a lot of raw foods

[Frog]

IEating mostly raw simly won't give you the results you're looking for. Cooked food in any amount is bad for the body and not natural at all


How do we know exactly what results we are individually looking for? Optimum health?? Sure, but are you saying that even increasing intake of raw foods will have no effect on moving health from being good to a bit better?

Is it all or nothing here?

[dreamrawalwz]

How do we know exactly what results we are individually looking for? Optimum health?? Sure, but are you saying that even increasing intake of raw foods will have no effect on moving health from being good to a bit better?

Is it all or nothing here?

There is a huge difference health wise from 95% to 100%. I think now that the OP is already 100% and feeling "optimal health" i think it would be a negative impact if she cut back. I know increasing 0-50% or even 50-90% you'll feel a huge difference, but NOTHING like 100%

[Lay-Lay]

I am a realtor. I am usually away from home from 7:30 am to 11:30 pm daily. I have to eat socially everyday.

These are foods I pack everyday:
Whole fruit
raisens
nuts
seeds

Ocasionally:
flaxseed crackers
hummus and celery
cucumbers
green sunny patte and celery
nut date balls
baby carrots
lettuce and a avocado

Eating out
I order a salad with no croutons or cheese
I add a avocado or salad dressing (raw) from home

or

I ask them to make me some raw guacomole and place it on top of some lettuce and tomatoes

I order a side of pico de gallo and pile it on top of my salad.

Some places have a veggie platter or a fruit platter.

You can find something raw on just about any menu.

I keep raisens in my car at all times.

I keep an emergency couple pieces of fruit at work in the company fridge.

I never leave the house without 4 or 5 pieces of fruit.

This works for me and I stay 100% raw.

[jujube]

Health involves much more than what you eat. You can eat a perfect 100% raw diet, but if it makes you suffer mentally or emotionally (such as if you get extremely stressed from social situations), then your health is going to suffer as well.

Think about people like Jack Lalane, Paul Bragg, etc. who were mostly (but not 100%) raw--they are/were in great health because their lives were balanced, they exercised, tried to live stress-free, and so forth. Whereas even some 100% raw foodists who were stressed out died relatively young. Diet is not everything.

Personally, I have been 99% raw for over 3.5 years at this point, but for years before that, I was about 75-80% raw (even though I hadn't heard about raw foodism then). Honestly, the biggest improvements in my health came when I went from SAD to high raw. Going from high raw to 100% was just the cherry on top of the sundae. I noticed a few improvements, but not as many as when I made the leap to high raw.

So from my own experiences, I don't believe it has to be all or nothing. If you have something cooked on occasion, but the rest of your diet is raw, that is NOT the same as someone living off McDonalds and Pizza Hut every day. It's dangerous to think that anything less than 100% raw isn't worth it... that's what makes some people go into horrible SAD binges if they slip off raw. It creates the mentality that "Oh no, I had a bite of cooked bread, I might as well eat a whole pizza and gallon of Ben and Jerry's now because I've ruined raw!"

I think the more raw the better, but it's up to you to evaluate your own situation. If you think you can have more balance in your life by not staying 100% raw in social situations, I will support your decision, because diet should not rule your life.

[Judy]

I agree with Jujube. Life is not about food only, it shouldn't rule your life. There's so much more to life. Your mental state for example! And a lot of wonderful activities you can focus on, instead of focusing on food all the time (which is what most people do). There's just more to life than food.
And certainly, mostly raw is better than not raw at all! I have to say though, that I can't imagine not eating 100% raw. In my case I would be compromising my health, because I certainly notice a difference when I do eat cooked sometimes, or when I don't at all. Why adjust to the feeling 'blah', if you can feel 'best'?
Again, it's not all about the food, in social situations, it's about the being together, the interaction with other people, it isn't nor should it be, about the food. It is called a SOCIAL SITUATION not a BINGE GET TOGETHER (which, let's be honest, gatherings in restaurants, parties and other get togethers usually are. People eat and drink themselves sick... What about Christmas? Nowadays it's just a terrible excuse to stuff yourself, it would be wonderful if the focus was less on food and more on people). What does it matter to others if you eat a steak (or 20) or a salad, really? When you are yourself, which means radiant, charming and humorous company, that is good. People will remember you for you, for your wonderful being and lively conversation, not for what you had on your plate.

[luckitri]

Dang it - did you have to say "the cherry on top of the sundae"? LOL

[jujube]

I mean the RAW cherry on top of the frozen-banana ice cream sundae, of course ;)

[julesmoz]

Thanks for all of your replies. I definitely agree that feeling "blah" is not worth the convenience of cooked food. I do really appreciate the balanced approach that you have, jujube, as I agree - there's more to life than food. But others of you are also right - worthwhile things take work!

Honesty, my biggest complaint with Raw is the convenience factor. It's not even that I so much mind explaining my diet to people. Hey, ya can't argue with results! So now I'm just on the quest to make this thing more convenient - to find foods that can be quickly and easily prepared - but are still filling (suggestions are, of course, welcome!).

My husband and I are living with my in-laws right now (we're in a major life transition and our stuff is in another state). I'm sure when I get my own home back, raw will become much less burdensome.

[julesmoz]

Thank you so much to everyone on the boards. This is not the first time you've inspired and excited me in a time of vulnerability regarding Raw!

I think I was assuming that I had pretty much reached my potential already with Raw (I feel so awesome, it didn't occur to me that there could be even more!). Now I'm realizing that there are still some things that could improve. I'm gonna stay on Raw and find out how far I can go!

[Tee42]

Honesty, my biggest complaint with Raw is the convenience factor. It's not even that I so much mind explaining my diet to people. Hey, ya can't argue with results! So now I'm just on the quest to make this thing more convenient - to find foods that can be quickly and easily prepared - but are still filling (suggestions are, of course, welcome!).


Morning into afternoon: Fruit. I carry bunches of bananas, and big bowls of cut papaya right now but peaches, apples, bags of grapes all work too. On a really busy day I may have nothing but fruit until 3 or 4 pm.

Afternoon into evening: I make a huge salad at least once a day. It doesn't have to be problematic. I throw in lots of greens and whatever veggies I have handy. Sometimes it will be only greens and a lot of one veggie if that's all that I have time to cut up. If you have Alissa's book the recipe for Alissa's dressing is to die for and so simple to throw together. If not apple cider vinegar (with the mother) and olive oil (cold pressed) and maybe a sprinkle of Celtic sea salt and you're good to go.

I usually like to have something a bit heavier once a day. Kind of comfort food. Do you have a food processor? You can make up Mock salmon pate and have it rolled up on cabbage leaves or make a Torte from Alissa's book. Sounds complicated but can be made literally in minutes. Avocados on salad also give me a heavier comfort full in the belly feeling.

Hope those suggestions help but keep in mind I'm pretty new at this and there are others who no doubt will have more interesting suggestions.

Lannette

[lissomllama]

How do we know exactly what results we are individually looking for? Optimum health?? Sure, but are you saying that even increasing intake of raw foods will have no effect on moving health from being good to a bit better?

Is it all or nothing here?

Honestly, yes. I, and many others believe that it is all or nothing. That is exactly how I would describe it. I explained it the best I could. Going 90% really isn't much better than being 50% raw. It's when you go 100% and you aren't putting anything cooked at all into the body, that you really see things happen. Of course, anything is better than cooked, but not a whole lot better. Everyone is different, yes, but this is what I have noticed.


Judy, why shouldn't life be about food? That is the way it is in nature. If and animal or an ancient tribe of people couldn't find food, they either moved on, adapted or died off rapidly. It is in this unnatural, modern age where we are always saying that food isn't everything. But it is, in a way. Food is the foundation we grow on. It is one of our most primal urges and we shouldn't suppress it. We don't need to get upset or bent out of shape about it but food should have a healthy and substantial sway on our lives.

[Frog]

I see your point lissom.

I just dont feel satisfied with a big salad or eating fruits and veggies. I do eat nuts & seeds as well though.

I always seem to fancy something to eat I either havent got or what I have got doesnt hit the spot. Sounds like a certain amount of 'sticking with it' is needed.

[honeybee joy]

I really know how you feel. There are times when I go out, and see others able to order other things, and it becomes hard when the only thing you can order is a salad...I always think the salad is wonderful, but I think of going out to eat as a treat, and sometimes a salad just isn't a treat, no matter how tasty it is.

I have been thinking alot about this subject lately, and the bottom line is it is a choice. What is more important, being able to eat "fun" SAD food when you are out and going home and being sleepy, or tired, or blah or eating raw and feeling really good, and having energy, and being happy. I have come to see it as a trade off. I try to enjoy my meals (salads) out, and really enjoy making that gourmet raw meal at home. You know, ya break out the candles and the smooth jazz music. (Hey, it gives me a reason to pick up the place. LOL) I think deep down we all know that raw is the way to go. I believe in the future it will be so much more easier for us. I mean hey, Alissa is gonna be on Tyra Banks, AND have a raw reality show. Things are gonna be poppin in the raw world. We will be able to have our raw cake AND eat it (out) too!!!!!

[dreamrawalwz]

I see your point lissom.

I just dont feel satisfied with a big salad or eating fruits and veggies. I do eat nuts & seeds as well though.

I always seem to fancy something to eat I either havent got or what I have got doesnt hit the spot. Sounds like a certain amount of 'sticking with it' is needed.

It just hit me, are you looking for that satisfied and full feeling that you get from eating cooked/SAD? If so then it's difficult to do that and you have to retrain your body/head to get used to this light feeling of raw foods.

[Frog]

You could well be right - I still get fed up with eating the same stuff ie tomatoes, cues, celery, salad leaves, avocados, mushrooms, radish, corn, zucchini, all fruits., even in different guises.

Its a problem too when regular foodstuffs are around for the rest of the family - sooooo tempting - I cant, nor do I want to, divorce my family :D

[LisaDS88]

I have to be out of the house several days a week for 12 hrs at a time. I also have trouble with the whole "pack my meals for the day" thing. I would always seem to have "boring" things packed, not enough time to pack it, or ended up being hungry and have nothing filling. My solution that has worked lately:

1. Pack/prepare everything the night before and leave it in a cooler (I have one of those soft satchel coolers) in the fridge overnight. That also helps it stay colder longer because the whole cooler has been chilled, inside and out. And, it saves time in the morning when I'm always in a rush.
2. BRING A LOT OF FOOD! If I don't have time to make a nice raw meal or something that seems really filling, I'll pack like 5 apples, 3 bags of baby carrots, an avocado or two (and a spoon), a little baggie of raw nuts (mix cashews, macadamia, pistachio, etc.), some Lara bars, 2 bananas, sliced red/orange pepper, and spinach or lettuce leaves to "wrap" avocado and pepper slices with. I usually come home with extra food, but some days I'll eat it all. Trust me, 5 apples are "filling." All of that can fit in something about the size of 1 plastic grocery bag, or smaller.

As for the making "fine food" issue, I highly suggest (if you don't already have it) getting the "Raw Food, Real World" recipe book and READ the WHOLE THING. The authors of the book are chefs trained at culinary arts schools in NYC. There is a section in the book where they talk about transitioning to raw and how they couldn't give up the whole culinary arts aspect of creating "glamorous" dishes. Hence why the recipes in the book are very detailed, and take longer to make than most. But they are VERY good. That book was inspiring to me because I have always enjoyed the artistic aspect of cooking. They show you how to maintain that "fine food" appreciation in the raw world.

[Bethanie]

:) I've seen benefits of 100% raw but nothing much on high raw (75-95%) raw.
If anyone has experienced any could you please post them for us.
Thanks

Bethanie

[Sharon in Colorado]

A good tip is to vary your salads with only 2-3 additions each time, so that you have an endless amount of combinations. I used to add everything I could find but the kitchen sink, and it got hard to get interested in variety after that because it was just too much "stuff"..

[Queen Shelley]

Whew! Great postings everyone, but I'll go back to the 'hot in Arizona' part. Get the Coleman ice chest that says 'Extreme' on it! It will really keep things cold for 5 days at 95*. (I know, AZ heat is HUMONGO) I have the large chest and keep it in the trunk of my car. How about a small lunch sized soft bag kept inside the big one. Then when you go into work you can carry just the little one. And/or refill the little bag mid-day/eve when you need more food. I always keep a couple of Avo's and dressing with me for eating out. Freeze water in bottles and rotate them (from home) to keep things cold and have extra cool water when you need it. :p