Raw foodism is a growing trend, where people believe in eating uncooked, unprocessed foods as much as possible.

The raw food diet involves eating a lot of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, while avoiding cooked foods, dairy products, and processed foods. While raw foodism has been shown to have certain health benefits, such as weight loss and improved digestion, there are some foods that should be cooked before eating, even for raw foodists.

Here are six foods you must cook before you eat to ensure your safety and good health:.

1. Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are a staple in many vegetarian and vegan dishes, but they contain high levels of phytohemagglutinin, a type of lectin that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed raw or undercooked.

Cooking kidney beans for at least 30 minutes at a high temperature can help eliminate these toxins and make them safe to eat. It’s important to note that canned kidney beans have already been cooked, so they’re safe to eat right out of the can.

2. Taro Roots

Taro roots, also known as eddoe or dasheen, are starchy roots that are used in many cultures around the world.

While they can be eaten raw in small amounts, they contain calcium oxalate, a compound that can cause irritation and itching in the mouth and throat. Cooking taro roots for at least 15 minutes at a high temperature can help break down this compound and make them safe to eat.

3. Bamboo Shoots

Bamboo shoots are a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes, but they contain high levels of cyanide in their raw form. Cooking bamboo shoots for at least 20 minutes at a high temperature can help eliminate this toxin and make them safe to eat.

It’s important to note that canned bamboo shoots have already been cooked, so they’re safe to eat right out of the can.

4. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a nutritious and delicious ingredient in many dishes, but they contain a type of protein called chitin that can be difficult for the human body to digest.

Cooking mushrooms for at least 5-10 minutes at a high temperature can help break down this protein and make them more digestible. It’s also important to note that some edible mushrooms can be toxic if consumed raw, so cooking them is the safest way to enjoy them.

5. Potatoes

While potatoes are a common staple in many diets, they contain solanine, a toxic compound that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.

Cooking potatoes for at least 30 minutes at a high temperature can help break down this compound and make them safe to eat. It’s important to note that green potatoes and potato sprouts contain higher levels of solanine and should be avoided altogether.

6. Eggs

While many people enjoy eating raw or undercooked eggs, they can contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella. Cooking eggs until the yolks and whites are firm can help eliminate these bacteria and make them safe to eat.

It’s important to note that consuming raw or undercooked eggs can increase the risk of foodborne illness, especially for pregnant women, children, and people with weakened immune systems.

Conclusion

While raw foodism has its benefits, there are some foods that should be cooked before eating to ensure your safety and good health.

Kidney beans, taro roots, bamboo shoots, mushrooms, potatoes, and eggs are all examples of foods that can be harmful if consumed raw or undercooked. By cooking these foods thoroughly, you can enjoy their nutritional benefits without sacrificing your health.