Raw Vegan Reinforcments Please!

[Rawkinlocs]

Mayday, mayday...Okay, I think we need some ma-aaajor raw vegan/vegetarian reinforcments here for those who are doubting, feeling fearful and anxious or just new and want to make sure they have made the right decision.

As the creator of this thread, I am asking that there be ONLY POSITIVE answers here, no counter-answers, please.

Okay here we go, if you have been successfully thriving on the RAW VEGAN/VEGETARIAN diet for 6 months or longer, please answer the following:

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks! :)

[Sunshine9]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

Vegetarian since birth - brief carnivorous period in high school/college - then vegan/high raw/wheat free for a few months - 100% raw for well over a year

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

Low-fruit

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

I had frequent cavaties before raw, but with raw they seem to have stayed the same and/or be getting better.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

It's hard to say since I only go to the dentist a couple times a year. I credit my dental health to eating a lot of greens, focusing on mineralizing my body, and practicing THOROUGH dental hygiene.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

Yes, for a few months I lost so much hair I almost went to the doctor.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

The problem went 100% away when I started taking bentaine hydrochloric acid after major meals, and incorporating angstrom zinc into my diet.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

Yes, when I was detoxing the first few months. Now I find I only lose energy if I move too fast in my life and don't take a breather for myself.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

It went away with time and patience. Also when I started to decrease my overeating and combine my meals, I had more energy simply because it wasn't focused on digesting so much.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks! :)[/QUOTE]

It is a journey, and the longer I do it the more I see that health is about so much more than FOOD. I think it is most important to be gentle and loving with ourselves, and to take it one day at a time where you are most comfortable. Get your minerals! Read a little bit about the demineralization of modern soil. Welcome cleansing reactions, and take that time to rest. Love yourself, love your food :)

Warmest,
Sunshine

[Ginger]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
I discoved raw at 5 months pregnant & went raw on the spot after reading Natures First Law The Raw Food Diet & Primal Mothering In A Modern World. Stayed 100% for a month & then fell back into SAD till after she was born. Vegan maybe 2 months after my daughter was born.. so somewhere around Feb 03 I guess. Stayed vegan until the end of 05 then went SAD till just recently. Was 100% raw off & on throughout that time, longest being 6 months. Am now 100% raw again.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
Never cared much for fruit. Mostly loved greens & fats with just a little fruit. This time I plan to be high fruit.

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
Yes.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
It was not a problem I had but rather a huge benefit! Durring the time I was raw for 6 months I had also switched to using toothsoap & brushing with a natural bristle toothbrush. I ended up re-growing a chipped tooth I had most of my life!!! I was stunned! Who knew such a thing was possible! I ran around showing my friends & family I was so thrilled!

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
Nope.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
QUITE the opposite actually. What a difference! OMG

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!
Keep at it & everything will fall into place. You will be SO GLAD you did!

[Indi]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
Veggie/ vegan 20 years. I then had two 3 month attempts at raw vegan last year.

Raw vegan since Jan 06 (after 6 mths, i had severe detox symptoms, added some cooked soups, old symptoms returned (ibs, acid reflux bloating etc) i returned to 1oo% and the symptoms disappeared.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
At first I ate high veggies as i was trying to stabilise candida. I then ate high fruit with veggie juice and large salads in the evening. I have experimented lots, but just followed my intuition and listened to my body. I currently eat more greens

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

Yes, but this was due to vomiting after almost every meal on cooked food. Since eating raw, i no longer vomit after meals. I still have enamel damage, but my teeth are less sensitive on a raw vegan diet.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

The damage was due to a cooked diet not suiting me. As I no longer vomit on a raw vegan diet, i figure at least my teeth are no longer sustaining damage from the stomach acid. I am researching and trying various remedies to help restore tooth enamel. I will post my findings on his site if i am successful!

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
No thankfully!

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
Only when i detoxed at 6 months, otherwise i have more energy than i can ever remember!

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

A whole list of irritating health issues cleared up
Ibs
Bloating
Acid reflux
Knee joint pain.
Sciatica
Candida
I am blessed with good eyesight, yet i noticed it became sharper!

I feel more relaxed and content.
I feel less pressured and less stressed.

The same stressors still hit, yet i deal with them in a calmer way.

I have always had a strong connection to nature and have always been creative, however i feel that this connection has deepened and my creativity has strengthened

Friends and family continually comment on how well I look!

Above all I feel more myself :)

I rarely feel the need to post, but i do visit every day and keep up to date with whats going on.
I have learnt lots from this site and felt very supported by the people who post here.
This site has been a huge inspiration to me and has helped me stay raw.

[DavidZaneMason]

My experience:

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

-6+ years all raw.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

-High fruit / all fruit.

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

-Before raw, terrible. After raw transition....stable to better.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

-I noticed improvement and cessastion of tooth pain following about 6 months to one year of transitional eating.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

-Off and on during transition....usually co-inciding with a period of detox, illness, stress....and a somewhat correlation with high-fat consumption.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

-I noticed improvements right away.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

Yes. Quite a few highs and lows while transitioning (about 1 year) with a very even and higher homeostasis following.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

-Energy levels stabilized after about 1 year.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

-Always be PREPARED! Eat before you leave the house and bring a snack bag with you to work. Eat from the bag guilt-free all day!

-Give yourself a generous and comfortable time-frame. If you 'fail' set smaller goals! If you succeed at even very 'small' goals....you gail psychic traction...and this gives you a taste for success....and snowballs. If you fail....even at some 'noble' large goal....you don't do yourself any favors. If you are TOO comfortable during your transition....you can always speed up. But if you try too much, too fast and are miserable....then you are defeating the purpose!

-You will get a LOT of great support and experience from the wonderful folks on this board (including myself). USE that resource...but be prepared to eventually stop asking questions...set your own small goals.....and get to it. Soon YOU will be a resource to others!

-Power and success to you! And may peace walk calmly by your side in friendship.

-David Z. Mason

[vgloveforlife]

I just want to say THANK YOU so much Rawkinlocs for starting this thread. I have been having my doubts the last couple of days so I really needed this.

[sport]

[B]1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
16 Months
2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
High Fruit
3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
No
5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
No
7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
No
9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks! :)
B]Think of the future. Think of all the people you know who are sick or dying and realise that food is not the only thing to live for. You may think now that the food you are eating is not what satisfies you but in time it will not only be what is good for but what you want because your wants will change. When that happens you will have the best of all possible worlds.

[Conscious Midwife]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
Dancing with the lifestyle most of 2006

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
High fruit considering bananas and avacados are my staples

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
All my teeth issues are related to dental carries incurred while pregnant and poor dental work that has been replaced with more expensive dental work

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
Got one left to pull, due to a filling that fell out and a tooth that chipped. Not related to raw though. Bypassing meat has definately kept me from causing unnecessary wear on teeth and I don't have to worry about getting in stuck between dental work which is a very good thing! HAven't whitened my teeth all year and they look great, even receive compliments. Plaques also dimished.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
Never. Hair is chemical free and increased RAW intake is helping it to thrive and grow thicker and fuller.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
Chopped all my hair off in Jan 2005 and it took the whole year to grow back @ 4-6 with no hair cuts. This year I have 8-12 inches of hair, in varying lengths, all over my head and this has been after 2 major hair cuts ad 1 trim.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
Energy slumps hit everytime I incorporate several processed SAD food items or drink caffeinated soda. It takes me two days of vegetarian + high RAW to get my rythym back. Oh and one time I inadvertantly had some MSG and ended up in the bed for 1/2 a day trying to get out of a very bad energy slump that included body aches, swelling and dizzyness. My mood is also EXCELLENT when I avoid SAD

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
When high raw or 100% I manage a household of five on just 5 hours sleep, feel energized with very clear thought processes and virually no dips in blood sugar or energy. Stamina and endurance also improved when diet is void of SAD stuff.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!
I'm not there, but time and consistency are key! Visualize your SUCCESS and meditate on it daily. Function with the desired end in mind and your journey will be fruitful :D

Peace and Chick Peas

[rawnora]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
6 years as of Saturday, November 11, 2006!

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
High fruit, low fat

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
I received the first clean dental bill of health in my life after 5 years of being raw. I have ongoing issues with old dental work needing replacing (it doesn't last forever, and many of my crowns and fillings are 20-30 years old) but absolutely NO new cavities, no tartar/plaque, no gum recession. 10 years ago one area of my gums was receding so much I had to have a very painful surgery where skin from the roof of my mouth was grafted onto my gum.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
No, my hair is shinier and grows faster since being raw. It appears thinner because I no longer perm it, but it is healthier.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
Many times, but I understood that this meant my body was redirecting energy to healing. Riding out those weak periods in transition allowed me to get to the place I'm in now, where I have energy to do anything that life requires of me.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
For the first year, weak periods were more frequent but they continued even through years 3 or 4, decreasing in frequency. Currently I never experience weakness.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!
Thanks for starting this thread, Rawkinlocs; people need to know that they are on the right track and that they can trust nature. In order to entertain doubts about whether eating a diet of mostly fruit, some greens (only to satisfy the desire for them) and small amounts of nuts and seeds is appropriate, a person has a lot of evidence to overcome. For reasons related to anatomical adaptations, physiology, biochemistry, psychological aversion to killing, acquisition problems and many others, it is clear that we are primarily a frugivorous species, although there is always room in an otherwise ideal diet for small amounts of less than ideal foods. That people who do consume those foods still manage to remain relatively healthy is not a testament to the necessity of those foods, but to the resilience of the human body and the benevolence of nature.

Warm wishes,
Nora
www.RawSchool.com

[chilove]

Great thread Rawkinlocs!!!


1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

I've been a vegan for 15 years, 100% raw for 2 and 1/2 years.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

High fruit, very low fat, occasional greens

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

Only when I was first raw and was drinking lots of water with lemon juice in it. The lemon made my teeth hurt. As soon as I stopped using lemon the pain stopped.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

Yes, the first year I was 100% raw my hair thinned quite a bit.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

The second year it started growing back and is getting thicker and thicker.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

I experienced a couple of periods of marked energy loss the first year I was raw. I was recovering from chronic fatigue and that really scared me. I stuck with it and my energy improved greatly over time.


8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

The improvement was steady over time. I noticed the biggest improvement in my energy and strength when I drastically reduced my fat intake.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

Please give raw a chance. It is truly how we are meant to eat. Don't be afraid of fruit, it is our natural food. Being raw will enable you to discover the person you are meant to be. Having energy and enthusiasm and good health and happiness is much more fun than eating some boring old cooked food could ever be!! I promise! And this is coming from a previous junk food addict and compulsive over eater! If I can do it, you can!!! I love raw for giving me my life back!!! __________________

Blessings,

Audrey
www.rawhealing.com

[sungoddess]

I needed to read this! Thank you rawkinlocs!

[Sharon in Colorado]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
about 5 years, but not 100% all the time

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
It has varied from mid-fruit to high-fruit, I am working in more fruit though

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
I've had dental issues most of my life, and eating raw has not seemed to effect it one way or the other

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
No I have not - although I will say, I do not brush my hair, and wash it 2x a week, when I wash it I always lose a large amount of hair as I detangle it.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
At times this does happen


8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
It was sporadic, and usually coinciding with the lack of fresh foods in the diet. Usually when I was eating "raw" chocolate macaroons, denser recipes etc. throughout the day.


9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks! :)
Just find your place in it. If you need to eat heavier foods, do it. But if you feel better eating the lighter cooked foods like steamed veggies as a transition (instead of the heavier raw foods) and it doesn't cause cooked cravings, all the better. There's no cookie cutter way to get into or stay raw, everyone finds their niche. Also I personally feel that the fresher the foods you eat, the more cleansing and healing you will experience.

[Missrawdiva]

Thank you soooo much for posting this RawKinlocs... YOU RAWK!

[VeryBerry]

What a great thread!

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
Vegetarian 12 years, nearly vegan. Strict vegan 2 years, was eating a lot of wheat & soy, was anemic had severe pms, severe axiety and felt really terrible. Went back to eating a little eggs & dairy at that point and cut out the soy. High raw nearly vegan 2 years, transitioning really slowly. 100% raw vegan 1 month.
I just came back to get my blood test results, my iron levels are normal, ( and not low normal!), folate levels are normal. Everything else is normal. :)

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
My diet varies from day to day, I am still experimenting to find out what works. I eat everything at this point. I preffer to eat whole foods. I try not to ovedo the fat.

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
Yes! I had a lot of dental work done, and my teeth are very sensitive.
I think that has a lot to do with eating a lot of starched and sweets.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

I am hoping it will gone away. For now I am avoiding dried fruit and eating greens, dulse & sesami seeds. I noticed that my teeth are much cleaner on raw, have less plaque.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
No.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
N/A

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
No, quite the opposite, I find myself much more energetic.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
N/A

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

My #1 advice would be to transition gradually and not be too hard on yourself. These boards are a great place to come for support.

[Alba]

Hi Rawkinlocs - lovely thread, I needed this too (I am in kind of a difficult place right now...)
My skin is acting up, and I've been raw for almost 4 months...it's hard...I'm such a teenager though, really vain *lol*
Love alba

[VeryBerry]

Ooops, I missed the 6 months or longer part.

[fiddler]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
Raw Birth Date: 8/31/05

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
High Fruit, Low Fat (Basically, the Graham 811rv approach)

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
Yes before RAW. After going RAW, I had some pains early on because I ate too much dried fruit and nuts. Now, on 811rv I haven't had any teeth problems so far.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
No

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
Initially on RAW I got great gains for the first month or two. Then, there was a lull for about 3 to 5 months. Now, I'm going gangbusters on energy. I think I have more energy now because I'm following the 811rv (high fruit, low fat diet) and taking better care of myself (sleep, managing stress, praying, etc...)

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
Yes, but it was because I improved my RAW diet to the next level. I was doing WAY too much fat early on with the nuts, avocados, seeds. Once I switched to 811rv, it took me months before I got a good handle on it. Now, things are so much easier.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks! :)
I've posted advice to this question alot over the past year here so you can check some of my previous posts. :) However, if I were to summarize I'd list these as my favorites:
- Always continue to improve every aspect of your health journey. Just because it is RAW does not make it the ideal! Okay to "just eat RAW" for the first month or two or however long it takes you. But you should always strive to improve.
- Set clear goals on why you're doing your RAW journey. If you haven't written down your goals on paper, then you should do so before you go to bed tonight. If you don't know how to write/plan your goals, get a good book on Goal Setting and take it from there.
- Read something positive everyday
- Consider the 80-10-10 approach, it's fabulous. For more info, visit http://www.foodnsport.com
- Exercise
- Sleep well. Make sure to get plenty. If you don't awake full of enthusiasm and energy to start the day, you likely need more sleep.
- Don't preach your RAW ways to others. If they ask, keep feeding them the truth in short doses until they stop asking :)
- If and when you slip and eat something less than optimal (i.e. cooked), don't sweat it. Get right back on to achieving your goals (see above). Rarely, does anyone achieve any goal worthwhile without setbacks on the way.
- Find someone who has already achieved the level of health you're seeking, and then model their behavior (i.e. do what they do). For me, I'm blown away by the low-fat raw vegan practitioners. There's a few of 'em on this board :)

What a great post Rawkinlocs!! You're still one of my FAVS on this forum - an angel and a great help to all who visit this forum.

Cheers,
Gil

[LightLover]

Excellent thread, great added value, thank you! :)

LL

[Rawkinlocs]

Hi all! WOW! I am blown away by the responses so far!!

Thank you all so very much and those of you who expressed appreciation for this thread, you're so very welcome! I'm happy it's encouraging you all. Also, thank you for the love and support you've shown me :) I sure appreciate it those times when I am uncertain if I'm being well received due to my moderating techniques - thank you for making me continue to know I'm loved here :D

Just dawned on me that I didn't give my own answers (OH and VeryBerry, no problem...still good to hear from ya! :) )


1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

2 1/2 years, though not 100%, 100% of that full time :( (darned chips!)

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

I'd say high fruit. I eat pretty simply most of the time, but still indulge in raw gourmet from time-to-time.

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

Like Sharon in Colorado, I had dental issues loooong before raw. Not sure if they're better, but certainly haven't gotten worse.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

No. Similar to Liftagift, my hair was chemical-free for about a good 2 or 3 years before I embarked upon raw and I really, honestly believe that any "detoxing" of the scalp was done already. But my hair is about 5 inches away from being down to my booty! :) Still thick and healthy!

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
n/a

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

Yes, during the beginning of my going raw.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

I'm not exactly sure, but 'guesstimating' I'd say it was about 3 months into it...something like that.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

I'd say to trust your body that it knows what it's doing. Always keep in mind that after years of abuse, recovery from that will not happen overnight and sometimes healing brings about certain discomforts. But glean from those who have been at this for a while and gotten the good results!

[ShelShel]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

Going on 9 months.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?This changes for me. Summer months it's almost exclusively fruit. Water filled melons mostly. Winter I've added gourmet raw and raw soups. Mostly veggies in the cold.

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?I didn't have one cavity in my mouth the first 33 years of life! But this year....ouch. I've had an impacted tooth removed because of infection and it damaged two near by teeth...two carries there. I will be having the others out next month...I did have a short period of extreme sensitivity!

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements? I'm thinking that although I have great dental hygiene (always have), the impacted teeth just happened to start shifting when I went raw...causing infections and damaging near by teeth. I don't think it was raw causing all this as much as coincidence. ;) So, now...my teeth are great! I'm extremely careful with them...and the sensitivity went away all on it's own.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?Absolutely none! Thick and healthy!

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy? Since the first week I went raw...it's been all good! :) That's the reason I started...lack of energy and I knew something was physically wrong. Raw was an instant relief for this in me! I have never been as tired as I was on SAD foods. But I do get a bit more sleepy around my period. But last month it was 2 days shorter than all my other months...so, this could be changing in the future.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!
Wow, where to begin. I guess, start slowly. Allow yourself the freedom to really try this and stick with it. Don't get down if you fall off the wagon...just get right back on. The more you believe you can you will. The harder you try the more you will accomplish. Give it everything you have to stick with it long enough to make it a lifestyle habit...not a temporary diet! Start your 30 day challenge today! You are worth it! Your body will love you for it...and you will love your body after it's been on raw! It's a mutual admiration society! Raw Rawks!

[Pailani]

What a great post Rawkinlocs!! You're still one of my FAVS on this forum - an angel and a great help to all who visit this forum.

I second that!

I'm still transitioning, getting closer and closer to where I want to be - and this thread is a great encouragement that I'm headed in the right direction!

[Gosia]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

I went vegetarian about 20 years ago, in my 20's, and never liked meat ever since. Gradually, eggs and cheese dissapeared from my diet, as I was realizing that I did not like the taste or how I felt after eating them. Then, about 3 years ago I went raw vegan. All these mentioned phases were not clear cut, there was a little bit of forward and backward periods in them, but the general trend was the transition to raw vegan.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

High fruit yumm!

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

Yes, before raw though. I had gum problems (had gum disease in the past). Also, I had quite a few fillings.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

Yes, my dentist was amazed to see how good my gums become on raw! Also, my teeth are pretty good to, no fillings for long time!

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

I have always had very fine hair. About 6-9 months into raw, my hair started falling out.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

Yes, the hair falling our lasted a few weeks, and since then my hair kept improving.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

I have far more energy than on cooked. However, relapses to cooked always resulted in a decrease in energy. I take it for detox. Also, I noticed that eating lots of nuts makes me feel not as energetic as eating water-rich foods.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

Yes. Staying raw, eating lots of fresh ripe juicy fruit and fresh tender greens always does the trick for me.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

I recommend that instead of eploring the intelectual arguments, you learn to listen to your body's natural instincts. All animals are capable of chosing the right foods for them by following their instincts, we can too. To me, this is the least-resistance way of doing raw, it is the effortless method. So, if you are interested, why not explore your own body?

Sincerely,
Gosia.

[yeahbethany]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

Close to three years now (ate some cooked foods from October 2005-March 2006, and now back on all raw)

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

High fruit!

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

Yes, sensitivity, chipping and the like. But since starting 8-1-1 (4 months ago), all sensitivity is gone and my teeth feel healthier than ever with minimal care!

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

Yes, see response to question 3.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

Had some problems with this before raw.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

Yes, when eating high fat and not getting enough sleep.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

Yes, started to get as much rest and sleep as I needed.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

Many people will say the politically correct belief that different things work for different people. I don't believe this is true to the extent that people want it to be. We are all humans, and should thrive on a similar diet to that of our closest primate relatives. Don't get confused. =)

[Vandy]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?

A year and a half, I went one day and never went back ;)

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?

High fruit, low fat. I usually follow the principles of Natural Hygiene. (Dr. Graham, Shelton, "RawNora", etc.)

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?

Before raw, yes. I had several cavities. After raw, I have had nothing but COMPLIMENTS from my dentist. Ummm, my scheduled app is not for another 6 months I believe...and it's a checkup.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

I had sensitivity at first, then it went away when my body alkalized, became more balanced, and I learned to combine food properly.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?

OOOHHHH YES, half my head fell off lol! However, when I stopped eating too much fat, and included MORE nutrient dense food into my diet such as fruits and greens (811), it began to grow back. I believe my body had to cleanse from the old, dead hair and replenish in order to be able to grow more vibrant and healthier hair. My hair is still growing back in full, and curlier, and darker!

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

You can read my experience on this in further detail in a thread entitled "Vandy questions for you?"

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?

Only on a low-fruit, high fat approach. It got to the point where I could not get out of bed, and I am always filled with energy. Always. I am active, and not supplying my body with what it needed really hurt me for awhile and I had to recoup from that, even on raw.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?

More fruit and greens, decrease the fat. I had to eat 2 times the amount of fruit almost, increase my salads to 2 lbs, and take out about 6 tablespoons of fat that I was consuming dailiy. These LITTLE CHANGES MADE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE. Also, taking out salt allowed me to realize I had a salt addiction. It's gone now :)

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below...thanks!

Please be patient. After years of abuse to your body, you cannot expect it to detox completely in a few days or even a few weeks. It took me over a year to get where I am now. I still am overcoming deeper emotional issues that are revealed to ma daily, however, my physical health HAS NOT CHANGED. If I can encourage you to stick through the hard time, the rainbow WILL COME. IT is WORTH IT. (I think you know it otherwise you would not be here). Allow your body time to heal, rest, proper nutrition, sunshine, exercise, and sleep. Balance will come.

Fiddler~ I like your reply on this one.. especially about "feeding them the facts rather than the approach"...well said.

[Lay-Lay]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
Since 2003 70-100%

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit? high-fruit

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth? saw cavaties dissappear

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements? They are all nearly gone

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
Yes
6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements? Yes, it did, after increasing my intake of green smoothies it slowed down within just days.

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
small bouts, but nothing like before raw.
8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements? Yes, few days after raw, just an occasional day of lack of energy and usually because I have eaten something not optimal.

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below

Eat raw, have fun! Play with your food. There are no rules!

[Rawkinlocs]

Thanks to those who recently filled this out! :)

Anymore care to share and bring some encouragement to others?

[PixieLed]

1. How long have you been raw vegan/vegetarian?
Since March 2006, so about 9 months now.

2. Does your raw vegan/vegetarian diet consist of eating low-fruit or high-fruit?
It depends on the days but I would say mid to high fruit.

3. Did you ever experience any issues with your teeth?
I got one cavity in April, but the weird thing is that the tooth didn't hurt at all. I would have actually prefered not to have a filling put in, because it may just have been detox since I started raw just the month before. But I guess now I'll never know. I'm going to the dentist in December, so we'll see then.

4. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
I'm not sure about whether it was caused by raw or not, since I always had a lot of cavities as a kid. I haven't had any sensitive teeth issues at all since raw, which I used to have before raw.

5. Did you ever experience any issues with hair loss?
Yes! About 3 months into raw I started loosing handfuls of hair. I think it may have been a number of things: raw detox, moving to new york city, stress from my new job and lack of sleep.

6. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
Yes after moving back to Canada my hair is no longer falling. It stopped falling out in September after I was reunited with my boyfriend. I also started taking B12 and protein powders, but I honestly don't think those have anything to do with improved hair since I don't take them anymore and my hair is fine. In fact my hair is growing in fresh and new!

7. Did you ever experience a decrease in energy?
Only when I don't get enough sleep or pull all-nighters, but even then I fare better than my friends who depend on coffee and sugar to recover.

8. If "yes" to the previous question, did the problem eventually go away with time and patience and if it did, how long did it take before you noticed improvements?
In general I'm not tired on raw, unless I eat something really heavy too quickly, like a whole tub of chocolate pudding (made from coconut meat, and maple syrup which isn't raw).

9. If you have any other words of encouragement for those reading this who are not quite where you are in terms of having been raw vegan/vegetarian for 6 months or longer, please state them below.
Please give your body a chance! I know it's hard, but just let your body tell you what it needs and listen. Also be sure to eat a variety of different things to stop yourself from getting bored. Buy different veggies and fruits, greens, nuts and try different recipes. For me that was the best thing ever! I never liked cheeses or dips before raw, so I didn't want to make them on raw. But after trying Alissa's raw dips and sauces and cheese, I'm hooked - they're so good and healthy I love them! :)

Also keep reading this forum, it's the best thing to keep you motivated. :)