Raw Food: A Healthier Christmas Feast

The Holiday Dilemma

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, but it often leads to consuming excessive amounts of white sugar, white flour, dairy products, trans and saturated fats, and refined carbohydrates. These ingredients are linked to various health issues, including weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average American gains about 1-2 pounds during the holiday season, which can accumulate over the years if not managed properly (CDC).

A Healthier Alternative: Raw Food Desserts

One way to enjoy the festive season without compromising your health is by incorporating raw food desserts into your holiday menu. Raw food desserts use natural ingredients like nuts, dried fruits, and avocados instead of refined sugars and flours. These ingredients not only add flavor but also provide essential nutrients.

Benefits of Raw Food Desserts

1. Nutrient-Rich: Raw foods retain more vitamins and minerals compared to cooked foods.
2. Lower in Calories: They are generally lower in calories, helping to manage weight.
3. No Refined Sugars: Using natural sweeteners like dates and fruits reduces the risk of sugar spikes and crashes.

Recipe: Flourless Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Sauce

One delightful raw food dessert is the "Flourless Chocolate Cake with Raspberry Sauce." This recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 ½ cups raw walnuts
• Dash of salt
• 8 pitted Medjool dates
• ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa or carob powder
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp water

For the Raspberry Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (thawed and drained if frozen)
• ¼ cup pitted Medjool dates, soaked for 30 minutes and drained

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake:

   • Place the walnuts and salt in a food processor with the S blade and process until finely ground.
   • Add dates, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Process until the mixture becomes sticky.
   • Add water and process briefly.
   • Transfer the mixture to a serving plate and form a 5-inch round cake.

2. Prepare the Raspberry Sauce:

   • Place the raspberries and soaked dates in a blender and blend until smooth.
   • Pour the sauce over the cake just before serving.

Moderation is Key

While it's tempting to indulge in traditional comfort foods, moderation is crucial. Enjoying healthier alternatives can make a significant difference. If you do choose to indulge in traditional treats, do so in moderation and allow your stomach time to digest properly before the next meal.

Interesting Stats

• According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, the average weight gain during the holiday season is about 0.37 kg (0.81 lbs), but this weight is often not lost in the following months (NEJM).
• A survey by the Calorie Control Council found that the average American consumes more than 4,500 calories and 229 grams of fat during a typical holiday meal (Calorie Control Council).

Conclusion

You don't have to sacrifice taste for health this Christmas. By opting for raw food desserts, you can enjoy delicious treats that are also good for you. Remember, the key to a healthy holiday season is moderation and making smarter food choices.

By incorporating these tips and recipes, you can enjoy a festive and healthy Christmas season. For more raw food recipes, consider checking out Jenny Cornbleet's book, "Raw Food Made Easy for 1 or 2 People," which offers a variety of delicious and nutritious options for all occasions.