One of the best things about writing a blog on raw food is getting comments and emails. It helps me to realize that when I send my raw food recipes and posts off into the blogosphere, YOU are out there reading and benefiting from them! So, comment and email away!

A lot of the questions that I get asked by email revolve around what you “can” and “can’t” eat. The first thing I want to say is that you can eat anything you want. I am not here to tell you what to do. I am here to provide you with healthy, nutrient dense options that are fun to eat! What you choose to eat is what is important. It’s all about being present and being empowered. If you are present, you will make better choices. Making better choices empowers you! When you are empowered, you make better choices and are more present! See how that works?

That being said, you want to make sure you are getting a balanced diet. If you have been here for a while, you know that I am a huge fan of green drinks and start almost every morning with them. I am assured that I get a big serving of greens, a healthy dose of fruit (you can combine greens and fruit) and what ever else I decide to throw in, be it a handful of nuts, chia, etc. It is a great way to start the day. I use organic greens in these.

As the rest of the day unfolds, I just pay attention to balancing what I am eating. Mostly I listen to my body. If I need something a little more filling, I will grab a piece of flat bread and top it with avocado, greens and tomato. Salads can be very filling, especially if topped with sprouted lentils, etc. As the weather gets colder, I am experimenting with warm soups, and heartier dishes like the potato pancakes. The zucchini wraps can be very versatile and used with a number of fillings. I often use tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers and avocado. There are so many to choose from!

If I need a snack, one of my favorites is the raw, vegan cashew cheese combined with a flat bread. Be aware that there is more fat in this because of the cashews so it will be higher in calories than an apple. Use common sense, be aware.

The same thing can be said for desserts. I have a sweet tooth and enjoy eating raw desserts. I do not eat them every day, and when I do eat them, I don’t sit down and eat a whole pie. Just because it is made from healthy ingredients, doesn’t mean it should be a substitute for your veggies!

I love your questions and comments so please keep them coming. I will keep the recipes and information flowing! One last note: I recently wrote for a local Minneapolis Food Blog, Simple, Good and Tasty. This blog focuses on local, sustainable and organic. You can see the article by clicking on this link: Simple Good and Tasty.