Long-term raw foodist questions

[kupcake]

Gotta say I'm glad I found this site. I've been reading the posts awhile and you all are so helpful and caring. Here's my scenario: I've been raw for 4 years now. I've overcome many obstacles and it's been great! I do have some questions now...maybe some of the veterans can give me some direction, please. After about two years, I struggle with gaining weight. I make seed milk most days, eat salads for my meals, maybe have a handful of nuts (if at all) and an avocado once every couple of days or once a week. I also exercise by doing cardio 40 min at least 4-5 days a week and moderate weight lifting 3-4 days a week. At one point I thought I might not be getting enough calories which put me in "starvation mode", but when I increased the calories, I put on 5 more lbs! Is it possible that I've been taking in too few calories that my metabolism is very very slow? I know other people that do not have this challenge that eat a lot more than I do including nuts and avocados. I mean, I look at Alissa's pictures and she looks fan-tas-tic!! Any insights?

[Sharon in Colorado]

Hi Kupcake - there is a discussion about this very thing. Several really good links on the thread. Please take a moment to check them out. Seems that when you are over eating fat, you are limiting yourself and not getting nearly enough needed carbs, which will help with your weight.

http://www.rawfoodtalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=6368

[sweetgoddess]

I know I am just getting a limited view, but have you considered trying more variety in your diet? Perhaps your body is too used to eating the same limited amount of food over and over. Variety might help a great deal. :)

[rawpriestess]

I see
seed milk
salad greens
nuts
avocados

I see no fruits here.

The seed milk, nuts and avocados are high in fats, and the greens are so very good for you, but I see no fruits, and this worries me about your diet. I am sure you must get some in,

Why not keep a journal for a week or so of everything you eat, and put it up in the 30 day challenge area, so we can all read it, and we'll see if we can help you.

Doesn't look to me like you are eating enough foods, but then neither do breatharians and they're doing fine.

[Revvell]

How often do you eat? How much water are you drinking? How much fruit do you eat?

R.

[Sharon in Colorado]

How are you getting in more calories - through fat or fruit? It is easy to up calories through fat but not always the healthiest option, especially if you are a long term raw fooder. Most folks I know who've been doing this as long or longer than you are eating a lot more fruit to satisfy them.