The popularity of raw food is rising but the temperature in the kitchen is not.

In fact, the food being prepared at trendy raw food restaurants never enters an oven, touches a pan or sits on a grill. It is all served raw, meaning it will not be exposed to more than 110 or 115 degrees.

According to one restaurant owner, the primary method of "cooking" is dehydration.

Those that eat raw food all the time subscribe to the "healthy food is living food" concept. They chose organic, unprocessed and uncooked food. "Raw foodists," as they call themselves, believe high temperatures attack a food's enzymes and minimize its nutritional value.

Vegans -- who abstain from animal and dairy products -- are some of the most devout followers of the raw food religion. And like many religions, this way of eating has been around a long time.

However, this rebirth recently has extended beyond big cities and stylish places. Raw food "cookbooks" are on the shelf at bookstores around the corner and offer raw versions of American favorites, such as potpie. Famous raw food advocates and authors preach to large crowds from Washington to Wichita.

One author, who has been traveling to different states speaking about the benefits of raw foods for nearly a decade, at one point only knew of two raw food restaurants. Now www.rawfoodinfo.com lists more than 60, offering a variety of choices, from casual smoothie shops to a full formal dining experience.

Many converts to the raw religion testify to the diet's weight-dropping and energy-popping results. Some raw foodists claim they need less sleep, they never get sick and that conditions, such as asthma or allergies, have disappeared. Some that may have "sinned" by snacking on forbidden food say they felt the negative effects of the food.

Despite compelling comments, nutritionists are not sold on the concept. They agree that raw nuts and vegetables are good components of a diet but are not a complete diet alone. One nutrition expert agreed that enzymes are compromised when food is cooked. However, the body uses its own enzymes for digestion and does not need others. Experts pointed out that some foods, including beans, are more nutritious when heated. They also say many of the raw foodists' claims of improved immune systems and higher energy are not reasonable and cannot be easily proven.

Raw food followers may need their extra energy to prepare the uncooked meals. Creating pasta from zucchini or dehydrating fruits can take time. Some raw specialties can take days to prepare.

Using blenders, food processors and a dash of culinary magic, raw food chefs often recreate tastes of popular foods like burgers, chili and ice cream. Common ingredients for such recipes are nuts, vegetables, seeds, herbs and spices. Seeds and nuts also add texture and protein to the dishes. Coconuts play a large role too.

While raw dishes' menu names and tastes might be similar to common cooked foods, raw creations have different textures. Chefs consider this part of the raw experience.

USA Today August 30, 2004

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

Much of the above article deals with eating raw food in relation to being a vegan. I am strongly opposed to the absolute exclusion of all animal products and believe we all need some. The only issue is what kind and how much. This is different for everyone and easily can be determined by figuring out your metabolic type. By taking our free test, you can get on the road to eating and feeling better today. I highly recommend . Both are highly nutritious. In fact, some of the best is available at Mercola.com. This is different for everyone and can easily be determined by figuring out your metabolic type. You can find a basic test to determine your specific type in my TOTAL HEALTH Program, or you can take my free online metabolic type test now! Further, I highly recommend raw eggs and raw milk. Both are highly nutritious. In fact, some of the best organic milk and cheese is available on my "Recommended Products". The article also explains the large role that two commonly overlooked foods--coconut and seeds--play in the raw food movement. These two ingredients should be a part of any healthy diet. Coconuts are rich in flavor and lauric acid, which is known for being antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal and boosts the immune system. Some ways coconuts AND coconut oil can improve your health include: Lose weight, or maintain your already healthy weight Reduce the risk of heart disease Lower your cholesterol Improve conditions such as diabetes and chronic fatigue Improve Crohn's, IBS and other digestive disorders Prevent other disease and routine illness Increase metabolism and promotes healthy thyroid function Boost your daily energy Rejuvenate your skin and prevent wrinkles Some seeds also are good for you. For example, chia seeds: Help control weight Contain high levels of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids Contain five times as much calcium as the same amount of milk Contain large amounts of B vitamins Are proving effective in cancer and diabetes research Provide an excellent source of fiber and aid in intestinal regularity One way to experience the positive effects of both coconut and seeds, without having to worry about preparation time, is with the Protein Bar. This totally healthy snack combines the powerful benefits of both coconut AND chia seeds. It is helpful for fatigue and weight loss and is loaded with essential vitamins, fatty acids and antioxidants - plus it really tastes great! Related Articles: Do Vegetarian Diets Really Work? How to Spring Clean Your Body Find Out Which Raw Food Diet is Right for You, Part I Healthier Milk is Coming! Bovine Growth Hormone to Stop Eggs Not a Likely Source of Salmonella Contamination