We Like It Raw - Raw Food Goodness

Interview with Philip McCluskey, our newest WLIR team member

Download the Interview (52 mbs) | more from Philip at LovingRaw.com

Our guest this week is Philip McCluskey, one of the raw food communities rising stars and one of We Like It Raw's newest team members, (starting next week he'll be contributing to the site on Thursdays).

Just two years ago Philip was eating fast food twice a day and weighed in at 400lbs. He felt he had run out of options and was certain that if he didn't have surgery, he'd end up with a serious disease or even dead. But Philip didn't go through with the surgery.

Although he had tried every diet in the book, he felt he still had one thing he hadn't explored. That defining moment set Philip up to take a journey that would go beyond his wildest dreams. In 1 year he lost 100 pounds and started the process for a major physical, mental and spiritual detox. During that journey Philip would also find his true voice, and realize that his story could provide inspiration to others.

To-date Philip has lost a total of 140 lbs. Listen to the interview to hear how he did it and what lessons the journey taught him.

Topics Covered

• Hitting 400lb, the defining moment
• Gastric Bypass as an option?
• How a woman in Europe changed Philip's life
• Controlling food to control life
• Letting emotions rise to the surface
• Tools to handle and open the soul
• Staying successfully raw
• How Philip's family reacted to his massive transformation
• Being heavy is more than just loosing weight
• How Philip's life has changed since going raw
• Philip's take and appreciation for the raw food community

Related

• Philip on Twitter
• Philip on GI2MR
• Loving Raw, Philip's Personal Blog

Erini Before, Erini After

When you've tried everything that's "supposed" to work, and it doesn't, then what?

Erini's Story

I was born with a sweet tooth - not sure if it is because mother would wolf down two bags of honey syrup Greek sweets every day whilst pregnant with me!

I turned vegetarian at the age of 15 after seeing an animal cruelty documentary, but this made me turn to heavy food even more. I was a bad vegetarian - pastas, chocolates and thick, warm bread were part of my daily menu and Greek pastries were my doughy comfort. As  a result, a bloated belly, puffy face, lethargy after eating and huge sugar/ caffeine mood swings became  part of my daily life. I would kill myself jogging, exercising and pretty much feeling like a hamster on a treadmill. There were periods where I would  try  veganism, a little fasting, juicing, food combining but there was still a large piece of
the puzzle missing as the bloatedness and tiredness would not go.

I wanted to do (and still do!) a million things with my time on Earth and not having the energy was frustratingly anguishing. I reluctantly came to believe that the belly was just a part of getting older with slower metabolism -   until of course, I was recommended good old Shazzie's 'Detox Your World' and my own world shot out of orbit and entered 'rawbit'!

The weight fell off effortlessly, the energy levels were supreme, I could mark my students' essays much easier and my mood was brighter, calmer. My raw dance had begun! That's not to say that over the past 2 years it hasn't been without its stop and starts, trips and trials but that's how I found my burgeoning rhythm. Saying I am 100% would be too rigid as I am sure not all the  cashews and honey I consume are raw, but I am near enough.  Now I have teamed up with another raw nutritionist here in Cyprus where we help people get started with raw, offering support. Spreading the raw message gives me such joy that I
feel I have found my calling in life.

And personally, I love the word 'Raw' - it is powerful, earthy, sexy and a great pun with ROAR. How wonderfully apt!

More from Erini at rawfoodcyprus.com

Courtney Before, Courtney After

This is what 27 days of Juice Feasting can do.

More here from Courtney here: Radical Radiance - 92 Days of Juice Feasting

Interview with Courtney and her coaches (David and Katrina Rainoshek) coming soon.

Anthony Before, Anthony After

The above photos were taken 1 month apart. Raw food and exercise every day, (see the original post).

I told Anthony we had to post these photos because I was getting email from people saying - "Well, hey, Anthony is a model, he always looked good. So how much more could raw food have done for him?"

Well, you heard the mental/spiritual benefits on yesterday's interview, now you're seeing the physical benefits.

Who's ready to get ripped? Raw Food and Exercise baby. Make it happen.

Related

• More WLIR Before and After Photos (check out Vinit's Success)
• Anthony's Blog

Lucy Before, Lucy After

Oooohh yaaa! Doesn't the new Lucy look amazing?! Man, stuff like this gets me excited. Excited that someone out there, someone looking for answers, might just end up Goggling and stumble upon Lucy's story. And hey, maybe you didn't get here by Googling, but you're here and now here is your change to be inspired by Lucy's story.

And a beautiful story it is. In her transition to raw foods (at the age of 52), Lucy picked up a whole new life and had the chance to drop off the following:

• 45lbs of excess weight
• daily migraines
• thyroid problems
• prescription medications

Here's Lucy in her own words...

I am 53 have been Vegetarian for 26 years, Vegan for 2 and have had horrid migraines my entire life. Six years ago I was diagnosed with a non-functioning thyroid. No migraine medicines would work for me. The meds for my thyroid were constantly being changed – increased to help “regulate” its function. I was totally at my wit’s end until www.alissacohen.com was plopped into my lap.

I have been 100% raw for over a year now and have not suffered ONE migraine – NONE!

AND my thyroid is now functioning properly and I am totally off all medication for that. I have and continue to do extensive reading all that I can regarding raw foods. I am living proof that eating raw IS healing and does work. I drink a 34-36 ounce green smoothie in the morning (loaded [heaping tablespoon each] of kelp, dulse, spirulina, Alissa Cohen’s Green Food Powder, and maca), greens (lots) of my choice, fruit, and a tablespoon of coconut oil. Lunch is whatever fresh fruits and/or veggies are available and a dip or a dehydrated “something” like crackers, breads, or “burgers” and a dessert, such as brownies, fudge, super candy, etc. Dinner may be another green smoothie or fruits or veggies. I am not deprived of any foods by any means.

I also get up and “move” every day; some form of exercise. I have eliminated about 45 pounds. All this in less then a year! How amazing! I truly believe Alissa Cohen is an Angel sent to me – to heal and cure me. I will remain raw the rest of my time on this circle of life called EARTH.

Philip Before, Philip After (must see)

My buddy Philip, from lovingraw.com, has produced a fantastic video on his transition to raw food. Philip, at his max, weighed in at 400lbs! Over the course of 1 1/2 years he lost 125lbs and has never felt better. There's more to the story than that, but Philip does a better job telling it in his own words. Press play!

Is there someone you know that could be inspired by this clip? Hey, sharing is caring! Spread the word and help transform our world - one person at a time.

• More Raw Food Before and Afters
• Philip's MySpace Page
• Philip's YouTube Videos

Jenny Cooked, Jenny Raw

This is a beautiful story of faith, power and taking action even when filled with fear.

Say hello to Jenny. During a routine examination Jenny found a lump on her breast... twice... during two separate occasions... over the course of two years. As fearful as she was, the crisis quickly forced her to face reality. Jenny took a hard look at her life and knew she had to make a shift happen not only for herself, but for her son too. Here's Jenny's story:

At 21 In 2003 I weight 210 pounds. I was very unhealthy and I knew I needed to make a change but it seemed almost impossible to get the weight off.

I didn't have the motivation I needed to make a life change until in Sept 2004 during a routine self examination while having a bubble bath I discovered a lump in my right breast.

I was very scared. The doctor scheduled an appointment for ultra sound and removal. And during that time I wouldn't eat any cooked food. I had never heard of raw food. This was my own personal attempt to eat healthy. In Dec 2004 I went in for the "simple" in and out surgery and had the lump taken out while I was awake on the operating table.

In Dec 2004 I went in for the "simple" in and out surgery and had the lump taken out while I was awake on the operating table. It was an experience that changed my life.

I continued to eat better and to incorporate more fresh foods in my diet and it lead me to loose over 40 lbs. I never was raw during this time. In June 2006 during the same self exam while having a bubble bath I found another lump but in my left breast. I broke down in tears. I made an appointment. During this appointment my doctor seemed more concerned then the last time so another ultra sound was done. Well I refused to be opened up again!!

I was terrified. I didn't want to go back on the operating table. I didn't want to hear the words "I am sorry, you have cancer!"

The ultra sound was scheduled for Feb 2007. In Nov I started learning about the raw food diet. I knew nothing about it. The only thing I knew was that it was similar to what I had attempted to try the previous years before and I knew it was something I had to do. Not only for my self but for my son. For two months I was 100% raw. I dropped more weight but I was more worried about my health. At my 2nd ultra sound appointment the technician had a puzzled face and came in and out of the room several times to speak with other doctors. I got more worried thinking it was going to be the worst news of my life.

A week later I got to see my doctor to hear the results of the ultra sound and he said I was lump free. Something about that day changed my life forever.

Ever since I have been as raw as possible and I am a firm believer of detoxing the body. I recommend raw to anyone who needs a solution to their failing health and I am so much happier!

Related

• Raw Food Before and Afters

Jayna Cooked, Jayna Raw

Jayna knows the power of raw food! Prepared to be amazed....

My story
The before photo is of me at age 22. I stayed this weight for the next 4 years. The after picture is from the summer of 2007. I am only 5’0” tall and went from a size 14-16 (175-179lbs) to a 2-4 (112-115lbs) now at 27 years old.

My Past
I became vegetarian and vegan very shortly after for animal rights’ reasons. I could never eat an animal or their by products again. …so surely I would lose weight right? WRONG!!! With all of the processed, convenience vegan foods out there, I fell into the same trap….vegan pizza, vegan ice cream, vegan candy bars. All still junk food. 

When I Went Raw…
I slowly worked my way back up again from 50% to 75% to 100% raw. Since going raw I have lost over 60 lbs and gotten really fit. I used to kill myself with cardio, but now I realize that strength training is what really changes the body and I do cardio only a few times (if at all) during the week. Instead of jumping all around everyday, I rebound for 20 minutes or take a bike ride or a walk. 

My taste buds have been transformed and there is a light surrounding my life. I have a renewed zest and energy for life and my daughter and husband benefit greatly from the new “me”. I have a new appreciation for all that life has to offer and now that my brain and body aren’t clogged trying to process cooked food and junk products, I am clear to envision a peace-filled, joyous life for myself and my family.

You can read more from Jayna and follow her daily raw life at www.rawfitmama.blogspot.com

Related

• Raw Food Before and Afters

Chris Cooked, Chris Raw

I know what you're thinking..."Is that the same guy?" Haha... hell ya!

Say hello to Chris. Over 2.5 years, with the help of his love Zoe, Chris went through the following transformation:

• Weight: 363lbs to 196 lbs
• Cholesterol: 324 to 97 US
• Blood Pressure: 184/50 to 120/80

That's just crazy, amazing and inspirational. Inspirational enough that Chris and Zoe found their calling and started coaching and educating people about the power of raw food. Check out their website purelyraw.com.

Here's a little excerpt from Chris's story:

I was sick a lot. That's what I remember now, when I think back on my health. I don't mean that I grew up in hospitals under constant care or made appearances at fund raisers for charity. My sickness was considered to be quite normal. It was just a fact of life, that I had to deal with.

I was overweight as a kid also. Only a little, 10 pounds or so. My Mom said I was just 'Husky'. Even though it wasn't much, in my head I remember, it defined me. I can't remember a time as a kid that I didn't hate myself for being fat.

After I settled down at 23, I began to gain about 10 pounds or so a year. I would try the latest fad diet, join a gym for a few months or buy a new fitness machine every once in a while. But my weight just kept climbing. This was no surprise to me at all. I had expected it to happen for as long as I can remember.

I developed severe Asthma, High Blood pressure and Hypertension. I checked my Blood sugar often, just waiting for the start of Diabetes. My bouts with colds and flu got worse and were normally accompanied by Pneumonia or at least Bronchitis.

At the age of 35, I was in bad shape. I weighed 26 stone (363 pounds). I began to have mysterious health scares, that would sometimes include a few days in the hospital with no diagnosis. I was also scheduled for a BPD/DS operation. (stomach surgery) Remember, I thought all this was normal. I wasn't even really concerned.

Keep reading at purelyraw.com to see how Chris turned it all around.

Britanie Cooked, Britanie Raw

Everyone has a story, but some stories have the power to inspire. This is Britanie's story...

The before pictures were of me from the age of 16-18 years old where I ranged from 185-198 lbs and was a size 18. Now I am 22 years old, down to 125-130 lbs and a size 7/8, thanks to going 70-80% raw and eliminating all gluten/wheat, rice, grains, dairy and artificial sugars from my diet for the past 5 years and just now for the past 26 days being 100% raw vegan.

About Britanie's past..

I was diagnosed with having GERD and a Hiatal Hernia at the age of nine and was immediately put on the acid blocker Aciphex which I have remained on for the past 13 years and am just now discovering has had alot to do with many of my food allergies and constant bacteria infections, candida and malnutrition. I am working with a well-known Holistic and Medical Doctor who is helping to get me off of the Aciphex and who also treating me for Candida overgrowth in my blood and digestive system, Mercury Poisoning, Hypothyroidism, Anemia, Endometriosis with Ammenoreah, Spastic Colon/Colitis and many B-12, Vitamin D and Amino Acid deficincies.

When Britanie went raw...

Why I went Raw: When I first found that I was intolerant to Gluten, Dairy and all grains, including Rice, I was devastated. It was so hard for me to go out with friends or to family functions and feel so deprived. It wasn't until I found so many great Raw Food Recipes and Websites where I started to learn the joy about Live foods. I discovered how much I truly loved Fruit and Vegetables and started incorporating them into my life daily. Although, I have always been a fruit lover, not up until I was found out to having so many food allergies and feeling limited did I finally decide to start eating more of the fresh Fruits and Veggies.

Keep reading and check out more photos of Britanie at rawfaith.blogspot.com

April Cooked, April Raw

I'm definitely a big of a fan of the drastically-amazing before and afters. They really show the true transformational power of the human body. But what leaves me really inspired and excited are the countless stories I get from people who have experience small yet profound changes.

There's no doubt that April Ross was a pretty girl even before she started eating healthier.  But it is amazing how much more her true beauty shines through now that she's do'n it raw. Her skin, eyes and facial structure all have that extra bit of flow that came from feeding her body what it needed.  She's never felt healthier in her life - so shes beautiful on the inside too!

I love highlighting stories like April's. Although many people out there that are inspired by major raw food makeovers, most people (especially young folk) look at someone like April and say, "Hey, I could see that happening to me." To which I reply, "Hell ya!"

April's story....

"I am 25 years old and just recently graduated with my masters degree in Gerontology from Georgia State University. I have been an aspiring raw foodist for around two years now. I eat mostly raw food 80 - 90 %. If it is not raw then it is at least vegan. I feel that eating raw food could help to prevent and cure many unnecessary diseases that we have in the United States. I want to share my thoughts and experiences on raw foods and document my journey."

Related

• April's Blog
• Raw Food Before and Afters

Jenna Cooked, Jenna Raw

Jenna Norwood was pretty fit when she was younger. Fit enough to have even done some modeling. But as the years passed, and her SAD diet continued, her body paid the price. Jenna didn't want to acknowledge the obvious. She continued ignored the signs until one day the signs were too big to ignore. While trying on a Las Vegas show girl costume (for a Halloween Party), Jenna finally realized just how much junk-in-the-trunk she'd been towing. It was time for change.

Jeena had a few friends who had seen pretty good results eating a primarily raw diet, so she gave it a shot. But there was an added twist. She decided to do what most people wouldn't have the courage to do. She made a no-frills, totally authentic movie about her attempt to transform.

Supercharge Me - 30 Days Raw

Almost a year ago WLIR featured Jenna's original trailer, but since we have so many new readers, we wanted to take advantage of Jenna's recently posted before/after photos to reintroduce her story.

You can check out Jenna's blog and new trailer at 30daysraw.com

Related

• Jeena's TV Debut on local ABC News
• More Raw Food Before and Afters

Neel's Story

Editor's Note: We had some technical difficulties posting yesterday, so we'll be featuring Wednesday's youth story today. And boy are you in for a treat. Today's youth feature, on Neel Patel, is actually a podcast. You can listen to the segment by clicking play.

Neel's transformation (over 5 years):

Audrey Cooked, Audrey Raw

Say hello to the new Audrey Walker. Disease free, filled with abundance, and 60lbs lighter - a total health  and spiritual transformation.

For many years Audrey suffered with a whole host of health issues. Within the first few weeks on a raw food diet she started noticing BIG changes:

"I had been suffering for months, trying everything under the sun and a simple diet change relieved my pain! I kept at it and I was completely pain free with two weeks. My IBS and depression and anxiety were all gone within the first month. I was ecstatic! I was getting my life back!"

Audrey also managed to get her mental, emotional and spiritual well-being back by changing her lifestyle:

"I’m so much more relaxed, positive and hopeful about the future. I feel much more spiritually connected. I have moments of absolute joy for no apparent reason. I now look forward to each day with a sense of optimism and wonder. It is truly wonderful to be alive."

Audrey now offers coaching to individuals who are facing similar issues. You can read more about that and more of her transformation story at rawhealing.com

Related

• More Raw Food Before & Afters

Alissa Cohen on Tyra Banks

Video: Click here to check out the clip of Alissa on the Tyra Show

A few weeks ago we reported that Alissa Cohen would be on the Tyra Banks show. The title of the show was "Diet Wars" and Alissa was up against Jillian Michaels and Dr. Ian Smith in an all out transformation challenge. All three diet experts were given two lovely women to work with over a period of 3 months. The goal? To see which pair of women could lose the most amount of weight with the help of their coach.

Well, this weekend I finally got around to seeing the results (via Russel Jame's Blog). The first clip is specifically team Alissa's results. The clip is actually very inspirational and just a tad bit awkward, all at the same time. Watch and you'll see.

Looks like Alissa got a bit shafted. It turns out that you actually have to do what your coach says to get results! Who would have thought! Actually, I feel bad for Sara, (the girl who didn't try the diet). Not only did she look a little bit salty, but she actually has no clue what she is missing.

So how did Alissa do out overall? Here's a clip of the finale:

Even though Alissa didn't win, there is no denying that Jhosie had the biggest transformation out of all the ladies. Not only did her skin look amazing, but Jhosie actually lost more weight than any of the women. You go girl!

And it seems raw food had a lasting impression on Tyra and her viewers. Just a couple of weeks ago Carol Alt was on the show with talking about her raw food transformation. She brought a few cases of Sarma's famous ice cream and I heard the audience went nuts!

Is the raw food movement cook'n or what!?!

Angela's 3 Month Juice Feasting Experience

Angela Stokes, yes that before-and-after-hottie, has just completed a whopping 92-Day Juice Feast, (different from a juice fast). The above video of Angela is a debriefing of her experience and the wave of emotions and feelings she experienced and continues to experience after her feast.

You can read more about Angela's experience and read about her raw foods tips at rawreform.com

Cooked to Raw Weight Loss Video

Over 100lbs lost! This guy is on fire.

Vinit Cooked, Vinit Raw

Hello WLIR!

Vinit here, one of the WLIR squad members. Last time I checked in with you all about my personal journey was about 5 months ago when I had just decided to give raw foods a 2nd try. I am proud to say that it's now almost been 6 months and I am still going strong! Not only have I been 95% raw for the past 6 months, but I am also proud to say that I, as my good friend Justin Timberlake says, have officially brought "sexy back" into my life! I feel like a million bucks, my skin has cleared up, I've lost most of my excess fat, and I'm in the process of getting Ripped with a capital 'R'.

A little history....

I started my raw food transition at 145 lbs. I've always been an athlete and have been conscious about working out and staying fit. Because of that reason I've had a medium metabolism rate. I've never gotten overweight, but I also was not one of those individuals who could eat anything and not gain a pound. As you can see from my previous photo, I do have a decent amount of muscle, but its all hiding underneath the fat!

Acne was always a problem for me, (just like Dhrumil). I never got huge amounts of acne on my face, but I would continuously get a new pimple after one went away. It was a never ending cycle. I used Neutrogena products and prescription medication to attempt to stop this vicious cycle. None of them seemed to work well and they often left my skin dry and give me large circles under my eyes.

But oh how the tables have turned!

Presently...

I am currently 130 lbs (Bruce Lee style), with most of my excess fat gone, except for the stubborn mid section. BMI (Body Mass Index) has definitely been lowered, but not sure of the exact percentage. I have lost some of my "cooked muscle" size, replacing it with rock hard "raw muscle". I am more cut than ever and I'm also closer to having a 6 pack than I've ever been before. I have made some increases in my weights, but nothing too significant yet.

As far as acne is concerned, I continued to get small amounts of acne for the first 4 months. Now, the only time I get acne is when I eat something that is cooked. Skin pores are much smaller and for the most part, I've got the Glow - thank you for inspiration Sarma!

Training & Diet

I train on average 1 hr 4x/week. When I first began my transition, I was working out 1 or 2 muscles a day. I was putting on muscle, but it was a slow process and sometimes my progress felt plattoed. However, in the past 2 months, I've changed up my routine to a more aerobic, body weight, and full body routine. This has helped in toning/hardening the muscle I already have, lowering my BMI, giving me more flexibility, strengthening my heart, and giving my body the platform it needs to really put on significant muscle in a short period of time.

When I first started 6 months ago, I was eating more quantities of food. Currently my diet is fairly normal and simple. My normal day consists of one large salad, 5 fruits, 1-2 raw bars, and either one green juice or Raw Power protein coconut smoothie.

Questions & things I'm still figuring out...

I am the first person to admit that I am far from having everything figured out when it comes to raw food and bodybuilding. But what I can promise, is that I'll be honest about those areas and explore them publicly on this blog. Here are a few things I'm thinking about right now:

• Does your body make its own protein or is it necessary to supplement protein into your diet to make muscle gains?
• What exactly is the difference between "cooked muscle" and "raw muscle"?
• Can your body detoxify and build muscle at the same time?
• Is it necessary to eat large amounts of food to get the large muscle size?

Eat Raw, Get Ripped Weekly Report

Keep posted for weekly reports on how to Eat Raw & Get Ripped. I hope to explore the questions above and the one's that I get from reader mail (vinit at dboost dot com).

With all that being said, finally, I'd like to leave readers with a little inspiration. Just Do It! You don't need to have it all figured out to start getting results. Start today and figure it out while you make progress.

Related

• More Raw Food Before & Afters (keep scrolling)
• Vinit's MySpace | Vinit's Eat Raw Profile
• It's time to pump... you up!

Raw Food Challenge on the Tyra Banks Show

Video: Click here to check out the clip of Alissa on the Tyra Show

Alissa Cohen, raw food coach & author extraordinaire, was featured today on the Tyra Banks show (see the clip) in one of the biggest raw food challenges ever! Tyra and her team created a show-down for Alissa and two of America's top diet coaches to educated their viewers on what diets work best.

Alissa was given the challenge of seeing just how big of a transformation she could take two ordinary women through over a period of a few weeks. Alissa's competition, Jillian Michaels (NBC's: Biggest Loser) and Dr. Ian Smith (VH1's: Celebrity Fit Club) were also given the same challenge.

Alissa is clearly the underdog here, but we having nothing but total confidence in her and the raw food diet! This is great new and a BIG win for raw/veg/organic/green/eco/healthy living and eating.

Stay tuned to WLIR for a video of the entire segment and updates to Alissa's progress in kicking some ass - raw style!

Related

• The Tyra Banks Show
• Alissa Cohen's Today Show Clip
• Alissa Cohen Live on Live Food
• From Cooked to Raw: The Raw Reality Show is happening
• Alissa Cohen's MySpace Page
• Alissa Cohen's Official Website

Cecilia Cooked, Cecilia Raw

Say hello to Cecilia Benjumea, a former suffer of multiple alignments, (asthma, depression, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome) who discovered the power of raw foods and turned it all around. Here's Cecilia's story:

As a child I was often sick with upper respiratory infections. At around age seven I was diagnosed with asthma and chronic sinusitis. At around age 10 I was on about 4 different medications for my asthma, 3 different types of inhalers and antihistamine pills. For me it was just a part of life to have asthma attacks and feel like I was suffocating on a daily basis. I didn't let it stop me from doing anything I wanted as long as I had my inhaler with me. I would use my inhalers sometimes up to 14 + times a day. Every time I would use the inhaler I would feel my heart race because of the stimulating affect it had on my system. I just learned to live with it and  never questioned that I could heal it, I just assumed I would have asthma 

Keep reading at rawglow.com

Related

• Cecilia's Raw Food Recipes
• Cecilia's Raw Food Recipe Booklets
• More WLIR before and afters

Felicia's Story: raw after gastric bypass

Wow...this is really powerful stuff! Via Allison & Raw Odyssey:

To: WLIR

I thought I would let you know that yesterday and today’s  posts concern Felicia, a woman who underwent gastric bypass surgery and lost  over 150 lbs but still had to deal with food addictions that caused her to  start regaining weight two years later.  People may find this  interesting, since many tend to see gastric bypass as a panacea or an easy  weight-loss gimmick. Unfortunately, the surgery doesn’t teach you how to deal  with food addictions and compulsive overeating.  Felica turned to a raw food diet last month and is enjoying the benefits - including losing weight  again.

Sincerely,
Allison

• Felicia's Story: Part I
• Felicia's Story: Part II

Dixie Cooked, Dixie Raw

Dixie, a health educator and midife (more than 500 babies over the last 27 years), shares her life changing results, (special thanks to Stephen for the link):

My philosophy is this, “If we look to the earth, the natural flow of our bodies, trust our bodies and learn their language then we will never be lead astray in our own health.”

I believe humans have the knowledge within them to be stewards over their lives and health.  We have forgotten that knowledge.  If we put forth a little effort we can remember it or relearn it.  We have given our power over to many other people, governments and institutions.  We have lost faith in our own ability, our bodies and lives ability to heal.

Dixie Cooked, Dixie Raw

Dixie, a health educator and midife (more than 500 babies over the last 27 years), shares her life changing results, (special thanks to Stephen for the link):

My philosophy is this, “If we look to the earth, the natural flow of our bodies, trust our bodies and learn their language then we will never be lead astray in our own health.”

I believe humans have the knowledge within them to be stewards over their lives and health.  We have forgotten that knowledge.  If we put forth a little effort we can remember it or relearn it.  We have given our power over to many other people, governments and institutions.  We have lost faith in our own ability, our bodies and lives ability to heal.

Mihir's Raw Food Round II.... I'm making a come back!

Hey everyone, this Mihir Kothari from the WLIR Squad and this is my Raw food Round Two post! If you don't want to read the full summary here is the short version.

Short version: I was overweight and sick. I moved in with Dhrumil during my college years and started eating raw. I felt great and transformed my life, but I didn't stick with the rawness. I've since gained back the weight, but I hate it and am ready for change. I'm starting by sharing my story today. Raw Food Round 2!

Full story: During my freshmen year in college (Aug 2001) I was roommates with WLIR editor Dhrumil Purohit. At the start of college I was a non-vegetarian that had many healthy issues that effected me on a daily basis. I was overweight, had acne, terrible asthma and heavy grass allergies. After living like this for years, I was committed to change! It just so happened that my eagerness to change was matched with right knowledge it would take to produce change....thank to my health mentors Nature Love and Dhrumil Purohit.

After one month of living with Dhrumil  my world had been turned upside down. I turned completely Veg-Raw from non-vegetarian at the skip of a beat. 4 Months into my change I had lost around 65 pounds. With this change, my life had finally taken a turn for the better!

I looked good, felt great, and my confidence was sky high! I felt as though I was untouchable. I had become the complete opposite of what I was before. Not only had I lost weight, but I had reversed my asthma, cleared my face and had no grass allergies anymore.

At the start of my sophomore year in college, I moved home and started eating a diet heavy in cooked foods again. Now, 8 months after graduation, I have gained weight again approximately 40 pounds in total since I had lost all the weight initially. Not only have I gained weight, but I break out more often, and my asthma is back.

Todd Cooked, Todd Raw

• More before and after photos from Todd
• Todd's Raw Food Journal

"I posted a picture today that was after 17 months raw and after the "fat-free" month. My body is definitely feeling tighter and I feel more fit. This journey is so interesting in that I am always learning, my body is always adjusting and adapting. My mind also, is always becoming clearer (just when I think its as clear as can be), I am continually reaching higher levels. Its exciting in that I look forward to what the future brings. After 17 months I can definitely say, I am suffering from no deficiencies of minerals or vitamins. No protien issues, no b12 issues, no amino acid issues, no health issues...period. I am 44 years old but I definitely feel like my body is much younger. The 8 miles I run seems like a stroll in the park, especially in these beautiful New England fall days. My family has accepted the raw lifestyle. My little daughter is very careful to eat plenty of raws before she eats cooked as is my youngest son. If they ever feel sick they immediately want to go all raw until they feel better. I never have to say anything. I never forced them or tried to coerce them in anyway. It was simply being an example, a living testimony. My wife is 80-90% raw, my oldest daughter is 100% most of the time. This has been a great blessing to my entire family. By God's grace I want to stay raw for life. But I have learned, life is one day at a time."

Sarma's Before & Afters

Sarma doesn't have any good "before raw - after raw" photos, but she does have proof of her punk rock days. A little rebellious were we?

Tonya Cooked, Tonya Raw

Tonya cooked at age 35 with her son nick, Tonya with her son nick again at 41 after 2 years of being raw.

"Tonya Zavasta, is the author of the book "Your Right to be Beautiful: How to Halt the Train of Aging and Meet the Most Beautiful You" and of the forthcoming recipe book "Beautiful on Raw." In these books Tonya comes across as an ambassador for plain looking women in their quest for physical beauty.

Her story is a shining example of how the raw food lifestyle can influence people's lives. She had to wrestle with adversity for her ability to walk from early childhood. Recently after several reconstructive hip surgeries she won that battle.

Tonya has been following the raw food lifestyle since 1997. She put this lifestyle to the real test when she used it against not only the common "after forty" downslide but also against the grave consequences on the body that general anesthetics and pain can bring. The raw food lifestyle not only helped her to sail courageously through troublesome times, brought her general health and appearance to an all time best, but also opened a new chapter of her life."

Keep reading at beautifulonraw.com

Michelle Cooked, Michelle Raw

At the age of 29 Michelle Reeves went from 310 pounds to 231 pounds in 1 year. Whoa! Here is an excerpt from an interview with Michelle conducted by Tonya Zavasta in September 2004.

Were you considered beautiful when you were growing up?

I was not happy with my appearance when I started, and honestly weight loss was the motivating factor for starting my raw journey. Now, even though I haven't lost all of the weight I want to lose, I feel very good about my appearance. My self esteem and confidence level is a million times greater than it was. I feel beautiful on the inside and it's beginning to resonate to the outside. When I was very young, before high school, I was not considered beautiful. I was actually quite unattractive, overweight, and awkward. Right before high school, I worked very hard to completely reform my appearance and it worked. Once I started high school, I began to feel attractive, thin, athletic and well....beautiful. I know now, though that that beauty was artificial, because I wasn't focusing on all aspects of health, and certainly not working to attain natural beauty. That is why that beauty did not last and in January 2004, I began the journey to natural beauty, and true self-confidence and appreciation for what "beautiful" really means. I am not where I want to be, but right now, I feel beautiful just the way I am.

More from Michelle at FromSADtoRAW.com

Angela Cooked, Angela Raw (Damn!)

This blog isn't anywhere near politically correct, so don't freak out when I say "holy shit!" Now THIS is the power of the most healing food on earth, raw plant food.

Angela's story (more photos here):

My name is Angela, I am 27 and I overcame morbid obesity by adopting a healthy lifestyle of raw food and natural health care.

Back in 2002, I was 23 years old, about 19 stone (266lbs/120kg), UK dress size 26-28 and lost in miserable cycles of a non-existent love-life, uncontrollable overeating and complete denial. My pride stopped me from discussing my weight with even my closest friends and if anyone tried to broach the subject with me, I strongly resented them for 'interfering'.

Joel Cooked, Joel Raw

Open an email, title it "OMG!" and forward these photos to a friend.

We've been pimping Joel Odhner & rawlifeline.com a lot recently. But these before and after photos are just way to AMAZING to hold back!

If raw-food & presence could do this for Joel, what the heck could it do for you?

Not only was Joel overweight and un-healthy, (hey, he's a good friend, we can call it like it is) but he was also addicted to cocaine. Not only did his addiction cause a state of total chaos in his body, but it almost tore apart his family as well.

Many people come into the world of raw-food expecting to loose some weight and gain access to some more energy - flash forward a little while later and they are a completely different person. And we aren't just talking physically.

Raw-food is the ultimate brand/product. Vain enough for our beauty crazed culture, enlightening enough for global consciousness.

Good stuff Joel!

Jason Cooked, Jason Raw

This post has been removed. Sorry.

David & Regina Cooked, David & Regina Raw

This beautiful before and after story comes straight from Downunder. Special thanks to Ricardo of rawfood.com.au for the link.

David's Story
At the age of nineteen, I was diagnosed with stage two cancer.  Throughout my whole ordeal, I treated my illness as though I had a minor cold. I had no doubt that I would survive the cancer and live a normal and healthy life; it was just a matter of getting through the barrage of chemotherapy sessions and the drugs that were highly toxic to my system. More.

Regina's Story
Looking back, a raw food lifestyle presented itself numerous times before I decided to jump in with both feet. My first introduction to raw food came after following up a personal ad in Kyoto, Japan. During the first encounter with my mystery date, he told me about how he just ate raw food and the amount of energy and vitality that he felt due to this lifestyle choice. I had to admit, the man looked vibrant with health, but I thought to myself, “What a weirdo! How could he just eat raw food?” More.

Paul Cooked, Paul Raw

All health is cellular health. Give your cells the right building blocks and you'll see transformation occur right before your eyes.

Via Paulnison.com

"At age 20, Paul Nison was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (also know as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), a deadly affliction.

His search for a cure began with medical doctors, but they didn't have the answers he needed. After trying almost every so-called cure to overcome his pain and suffering, Paul finally discovered the benefits of eating more simply. He started by getting rid of foods that were no good for him. Simplifying his diet was the first step in his cure."

More From Paul Nison

• Healing Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Paul's Lecture Tour
• Raw Life Newsletter

Shazzie Cooked, Shazzie Raw

UK raw-food author and Chef Shazzie went from many years cooked (left) to 22 months raw (right). Can you say,"WHOA!"

"Born in East Yorkshire in 1969, Shazzie had a typical northern lifestyle and diet in her formative years. As an adult, she suffered lethargy, depression, brain-fog, period pains, bad skin, and aches and pains -- until she created a detox and rejuvenation programme for herself."

Check out Shazzie & David Wolfe's newest book: Nacked Chocolate: The astonishing truth about the world's greatest food

Abbey Cooked, Abbey Raw

Abbey Cooked (before), Abbey Raw (after). Abbey, age 24, set out on a mission to gain weight the healthy way. She went from 90lbs to 100lbs in four months eating a raw food diet.

Check out Abbey's story: "How I Gained Weight -- Weight Gaining the Healthy Way!"

Note: Abbey's page is currently down. We are linking to the 2006 archived version of the page.