I want to go Raw, but I don't know where or how to start- HELP

[msva]

As you can tell by my screen name I'm from VA which means I'm a southern girl which means land of the carbs. My family has been hit with just about every illness that you can think of. As I'm getting older I am finding it hard to keep the weight off. More importantly I want to feel healthy. I am tired of the stuff that makes me feel awful.

I am LOST! I don't know what to buy, where to buy it, how to fix it, etc. Is there a simple way to start?

If anyone else is new and wants a buddy please let me know. I am ready for a full lifestyle change.:)

[Frugal Raw]

Hey msva! I'm in East TN - tricities area!! Welcome neighbor:D Yes there are simple ways to start, and no you don't have to take out a 2nd mortgage;) Raw can be done as simply as you wish to go. Feel free to email me anytime. I've had quite the journey...

[lori ann]

Hey there!

Welcome, it can be as easy as you want it to be-fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds or you can try to do some recipes. Do a search for green smoothies and do those. Also a great, great help would be Alissa's book. If you can get it right away-go to your library and get some books about the subject. Good luck I am sure you will do great :)

[RawPaw]

Like above, keep it simple! If you're hungry, grab a fruit...apple, banana, orange. Organic is better, but anything is better than cooked meats.

Once you get used to eating things by themselves, go make a green smoothie. I use my parents' 1970s blender that still works. You don't need anything fancy when you start out. Start simple again. Buy some organic spinach and put some ripe bananas together. 16-32 ounces can be a great breakfast.

When in doubt, go to the store and start buying cheap dark greens (or deep colors) that catches your eye or smells good. You don't have to know anything about it. Experiment!

Just know that green smoothies are the basis for a great food program. A robust raw salad is great for dinner and pick up a fruit when you feel hungry.

[Jenifae]

Hi msva,

I am new too. About a month. However, I have been vegetarian and eating primarily organic for over 2 years now. The Raw way brings it a step up and what I've noticed helps me to take a look at my slips, why I'm slipping, and what my goals are.
So, I keep telling myself it's Progress not Perfection!

I got David Wolfe's books:
The Sunfood Diet Success System (Transformational)
Eating for Beauty

I haven't gotten Alissa's Book yet but, that is next.

There is so much on the internet and these chat groups are great. This one is the best i've found yet. Extremely informative and everyone is so nice and helpful.

Your New New to Raw Pal
Jen

[chasmyn]

I've been checking every raw food book out of the library and reading them all, and coping down lots of recipes. I figure by checking them all out first, I'll know which ones I want to buy and have around for future reference.

I've already been organic for many years now, and I already had a Vitamix and have been doing green smoothies for almost a year now. So I suppose I've had somewhat of a start.

I did go ahead and invest in a dehydrator, as well, because I know I'll be using it a lot - I feel like the right tools are a sound investment to make.

My recommendation would be to read as much as you can find and to watch lots of youtube videos and DVDs on raw food. I've found that watching the DVDs and videos and actually seeing someone prepare the raw recipes makes it so much less intimidating when I try to go at it on my own.

Also, is there a raw food chapter in your area? If you can find a raw food potluck or meetup or something (Google will help you), or go to a lecture, that also helps. And you can meet other people who will support you on your journey as well.

I also like Natalia Rose's books, because she recommends a gradual transition and gives many practical ideas on how to incorporate raw foods. I am also loving the Boutenkos, particularly Victoria - their recipes are fantastic and they have a fascinating family story of going raw.

All of these forums have wonderful recipes and lots of support, as well - everyone here wants you to succeed - it can help a lot to have even just online support, IMO.

[spicyfull]

I wish you everything you need to Stay RAW.........Welcome to MY World.

[msva]

I feel like I have a few places to start.

Thanks again
msvaraw4life@yahoo.com

[Veganforlife]

Alissa's book and DVD.
This forum - use the search function (up at the green bar). Read, read, read while eating fresh fruits and drinking green smoothies. Educate yourself!
Good luck and welcome!

[StarFire]

You've gotten some EXCELLENT ADVICE to help you get started!!!

Aloha and Welcome to RFT!!! I'm so glad you have joined us!!! This forum is wonderful - and as you can already see... filled with lots of wisdom and support!

My advice... the best place to start if you TRULY want to become successful at this LIFEstyle... get ALISSA's book and the DVD.. they will help you immensely... and take mattye up on her offer... She has had an amazing journey -- you can see her transformation in the before and after section here on RFT!!

good luck to -- it's nice to have you with us!!

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s43/FireStar_830/welcome.gif

[Jenifae]

I also like Natalia Rose's books, because she recommends a gradual transition and gives many practical ideas on how to incorporate raw foods.


David Wolfe also, recommends a gradual transition of 80% - 20%. I have noticed alot of Raw people are very supportive and recommend gradual transitions which, is smart because it wil be easier on for most ... like me ;)

[jacsam]

Read Alissa's book and watch her DVD....they will give you all the answers....you'll know what you need and how to do it, when you finish reading and watching.