Raw Foods = Raw Nerves

I just read an article about the Raw Foods Diet. Here’s a synopsis: Meat? Bad. Dairy? Bad. Processed food (including bread, rice and pasta)? Bad. Virtually every food in my kitchen is poisoning me. Some guru is suggesting that if I eat only raw fruits, veggies and nuts, I will be a happier person. Not only that, but he is suggesting that I fast for 5- 10 days before embarking on this new way of life.

Here’s what I have to say: Bwah ha ha ha ha!!!! This person obviously does not have young children. Maybe not even a spouse or a very demanding job. It is a full-time job to eat this way. You need to be prepared everywhere you go. Prepared to be hungry, bitchy and unsatisfied, that is.

There’s a history of diabetes in my family, and I’ve been told by my doctor that I am “insulin resistant.” Dr. S would love to see me on the Raw Foods diet. I asked him once what he does when he goes to a birthday party — does he insult the host by not eating the lasagna and birthday cake? Apparently so. Dr. S said “Why would I want to pollute my body when I work so hard to keep it running smoothly?” Yeah, yeah, my body is a temple and all that. At my temple I worship Pop-Tarts and coffee (with milk and sugar) every morning. Without said worship ritual, my nerves are raw.

Nutrition is a conundrum. There’s always some new diet, with all the research to prove why it’s the right way to go. And despite all this good advice, we are still an obese, unhealthy nation of people. I’ve decided that the best I can do is come up with my own Rules for Healthy Eating that work for me. They include:

1. Cut down on processed foods (breads, boxed foods, frozen foods).
2. Cut down on dairy.
3. Choose raw fruits & veggies often.
4. Plan a healthy, balanced dinner every night.
5. Drink lots of water and stay away from fruit juice.

I could never give up meat. Or pasta. Or sugar – my drug of choice. Or margaritas.

I’ve lost 20 pounds since January. My goal is to lose 5 pounds more and build back some muscle. Speaking of which - we went to the gym! Yes, again! The kids were great. I am beside myself with excitement. And I’m still going to have my Pop-Tart in the morning.