Understanding the Foods Available in a Raw Vegan Diet
Raw vegans primarily subsist on unprocessed, uncooked fruits and vegetables. They do not eat any animal products, including dairy, eggs and honey, and they avoid processed, cooked and refined foods. Legumes, nuts, seeds, grains and sprouts are also included in the raw vegan diet. Proponents of raw veganism believe consuming organic, raw and vegan foods provides the body with optimal nutrition and maximum vitality.
Does Drinking Coffee Violate the Rules?
Coffee, which is often enjoyed as a brewed hot beverage, is a grey area among raw vegans. For some, this caffeinated drink is acceptable as long as it is pure and not diluted with any other ingredients. Other raw vegans avoid coffee altogether, believing it is overly processed and causes adverse effects in the body. Experts who promote a raw vegan diet suggest those interested in experimenting with the lifestyle view coffee as a condiment and not a significant dietary component.
Coffee Processing and Impact on the Body
Coffee beans are typically roasted before they are brewed, eliminating most of their antioxidant properties and leading to an increase in irritable substances such as caffeine. Drinking large amounts of coffee can stimulate the fight-or-flight response in the body, resulting in increased cortisol production and other physiological changes. Coffee can also interfere with the absorption of vitamin B12, zinc and magnesium.
Benefits of Raw and Organic Coffee
Raw and organic coffee may offer some nutritional benefits that are unavailable in the traditional coffee beverage. If a coffee bean has not been roasted, it retains a large concentration of antioxidants, along with minerals like magnesium, potassium and calcium. Studies have also found raw and organic coffee to exhibit antimicrobial and other health-promoting effects.
Alternatives to Coffee
There are many alternatives to coffee that can give raw vegans an energy boost without compromising their lifestyle. Yerba mate is widely accepted among raw vegans as it is caffeine-free and provides high levels of antioxidants and minerals. Other options include raw cannabis juices and juices derived from coconuts and wheatgrass.
Does Raw Veganism Contradict the Ethos of Coffee?
The primary spirit of raw veganism is to respect the lives of animals and to be mindful of their suffering. Coffee production is a controversial industry due to the high levels of animal exploitation involved. Global demand for coffee has driven an increase in commercial farming, resulting in environmental damage, forced labor and the displacement of small-scale producers.
Health Benefits of Going Caffeine-Free
The body does not actually require caffeine to function. Ditching the beverage can actually be beneficial to overall well-being. Without the stimulation of caffeine, the body can better regulate its production of cortisol and adrenaline. Forgoing coffee will also improve the body’s access to valuable nutrients.
Exploring Subconscious Attachments to Coffee
Coffee is known as “the drink of productivity.” As such, some raw vegans may have an unconscious attachment to the notion of increasing their focus by drinking coffee. Raw vegans attempting to give up coffee should explore where this urge is coming from and take the time to understand why they feel so attached to the beverage.
Easing the Discomfort of Withdrawal Symptoms
Since the body adapts to relying on coffee for stimulation, those who suddenly act on their decision to quit may experience negative withdrawal symptoms, including headaches and fatigue. Experiencing these symptoms is likely to be uncomfortable for raw vegans, but luckily there are many strategies for mitigating them, such as participating in activities that promote physical and mental relaxation.
Building a Support Network
Having a supportive network is a key factor in sustaining healthy behaviors, especially when transitioning from one lifestyle to another. Those who decide to become raw vegans should search for likeminded individuals and build meaningful and lasting friendships that are based around raw food and veganism. Doing so will not only increase social ties and emotional support, but can also open the door to new ideas and knowledge on the subject.
Sticking to the Raw Vegan Diet
Committing to a raw vegan diet is no easy task. One of the main obstacles to adoption is fear of missing out on certain tastes and cravings. People new to the lifestyle may find it comforting to understand that there are so many creative ways to create delicious dishes that are compliant with many vegan and raw food recipes.
Reaping the Timeless Benefits of Raw Veganism
By claiming ownership of their health and well-being, those who commit to a raw vegan lifestyle may be rewarded with improved mental clarity, sustained energy and fewer digestive problems. Raw food consumption also reduces the risk of chronic health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes.
Finding the Right Balance
It is understandable for raw vegans to be wary of drinking coffee, as its roasting process can diminish its nutritional benefits and make it difficult for the body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals. Ultimately, however, it is a personal choice. If a raw vegan decides to consume coffee, they should do their research, experiment responsibly, and find the right balance that works best for their overall health.
