How to Grow Food for a Raw Diet

Raw foods are not heated above 116 degrees F to preserve the molecular structure and, therefore, the enzymes in the food. Raw foods are considered to have higher nutrient values than cooked foods. Raw foods are sprouted foods in which enzymes are activated by soaking seeds in water. To grow food for a raw diet, you simple allow seeds to sprout. It is an easy process to grow raw foods at home.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Organic sprouting seeds
• Sprouters tray

Growing Food for a Raw Diet

1. 

   Decide what kinds of sprouts you want. You can sprout broccoli, mustard, alfalfa, radish, basil and hemp, to name just a few seeds. Consider sprouting grains and legumes as well. These can provide a range of nutrients and vitamins, such as protein, fiber, Vitamin C, Iron and Phosphate, which are important considerations for raw food diets.

2. 

   Buy organic sprouting seeds. Organic is important in any case. But for raw foods enthusiasts, organic is essential for healthy, pesticide-free food. Organic seeds are not much more expensive than non-organic and are worth the investment.

3. 

   Soak organic sprouting seeds overnight in distilled water. Leave the container in a dark place. This opens the hull to allow the seeds to sprout. Do not bypass this step for larger seeds with tougher hulls. Drain, replace in the jar and in the dark for another 12 hours.

4. 

   Drain water that accumulates from the seedlings and rinse twice a day for 3 to 4 days. Keep the jar in a dry and dark place. Tilt the jar so that the seeds do not touch the water that drains from them.

5. 

   Promote chlorophyll. When the sprouts are as long as the seeds, expose the sprouts to light. Enjoy sprouts in main dishes and juices.

Resources

• Grow Sprouts
• Grow Your Own Live Foods
• Sprouts and Sprouting
• FDA: Questions about Sprouting Sprouts