Raw Foods vs Cooked: Balancing Nutrition and Comfort

When it comes to eating raw or cooked foods, there's a common preconception that one must choose one or the other. However, this is far from the truth. While I do have a penchant for raw veggies and certain types of raw fish, my diet isn't limited to just raw foods. In fact, many of the foods I consume in their raw form release nutrients more efficiently after being cooked. My love for raw foods is often balanced with a healthy dose of cooked items, ensuring a well-rounded and nutritional diet.

Striking a Balance with Raw and Cooked Foods

My diet includes a variety of raw fruits, raw green onions, pureed raw garlic, raw ginger, and raw coriander. However, it's important to note that many nutrients are released more efficiently when foods are cooked. For example, while I find raw carrots in their whole form bothersome to eat, I eagerly consume them in grated form in mixed dishes. Grated carrots do not only taste better but also offer enhanced nutritional benefits once cooked.

My preference for raw foods also extends to avocado, coconut, bananas, and macadamia nuts, which are all impressive sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Survival and Nutritional Needs

While I appreciate the benefits of raw foods, I can't ignore the fact that certain nutrients are more readily absorbed when foods are cooked. For instance, cooking meat renders it more digestible and allows for better absorption of certain nutrients. Balancing raw and cooked foods is crucial for ensuring I get a full spectrum of nutrition needed for survival and optimal health.

When considering my dietary choices, the nutritional value of the food takes precedence over my personal taste preferences. Therefore, I would choose items like sushi, peanuts, broccoli, and avocado even if I don't particularly have a strong affinity for them. These foods are rich in essential nutrients that I need to survive, ensuring my body gets the necessary vitamins and minerals.

Adjusting to Seasons: Hot vs Cold Foods

But how does my diet adjust to the seasons? During colder months, my preference leans towards warm and cooked foods. In the Pacific Northwest, where temperatures can drop significantly during autumn, winter, and even early spring, my diet includes many warming, cooked dishes to provide me with the essential “fuel” I need. Cooking my food ensures that it is not only more comfortable to consume but also easier to digest in the colder months.

For example, during winter, I might opt for slow-cooked stews, warm soups, and roasted vegetables. These dishes not only offer the necessary warmth but also ensure that my body receives a balance of nutrients from both raw and cooked sources. In the warmer months, I can revert to a more raw and fresh diet, knowing that my body is ready for these nutrient-rich, uncooked foods.

Ultimately, the key to a balanced diet is understanding the nutritional value of different foods and adjusting your choices based on your needs and the season. Whether you're a fan of raw foods or prefer cooked meals, finding a happy medium that works for you is the best way to ensure that you're getting the nutrients your body needs to thrive.