The effect of eating raw food is not good for health

In recent years, eating raw food has become a trend among culinary enthusiasts. Sushi, sashimi and other raw vegetable preparations are among the dishes that are not spared from the word raw. But is it safe to just eat raw meat or vegetables? Is there a health risk effect of eating raw food?

Some of the possible effects of eating raw food

1. Lots of bacteria and parasites

One of the effects of eating raw foods such as sushi and sashimi is that it can invite bacteria and parasites into the body. Bacteria and parasites can thrive on raw fish that is not fresh and can cause poisoning.

In addition, if the fish used is freshwater fish, it may contain a natural toxin called ciguatera. Ciguatera can cause a person to suffer from digestive and nervous problems.

2. Increase the risk of heart disease

The American Society for Nutritional Sciences in October 2005 noted a German study, which collected data on people who like to eat raw foods, especially fruits and vegetables. The researchers examined its effect on the health of the body, especially the heart.

They found that the effect of eating raw food had an effect on a person's cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Furthermore, raw food that is eaten continuously can have an impact on increasing levels of homocysteine, which is a type of amino acid that is believed to increase the risk of heart disease.

3. Interfere with the work of the thyroid hormone

Many raw vegetables such as kale, broccoli, cauliflower, mustard greens and cabbage contain goitrogens. Goitrogens are naturally occurring compounds in some foods that can inhibit thyroid function and can eventually lead to hypothyroidism.

For people who like to eat vegetables or eat other raw foods, these goitrogens can worsen the ability of your thyroid to produce other important hormones in the body. It is recommended to cook certain vegetables to turn off the goitrogen, so that the body's thyroid hormone health is maintained

4. Digestive problems will arise

Raw meat and vegetables when consumed will tend to be difficult for the body to digest. This is because meat and vegetables have cellulose and other fibrous structures, making it difficult for the stomach to digest.

The problem is, human digestion is not the same as animal digestion, which can directly digest all the food that comes in. Especially vegetable fiber from vegetables, can weaken the digestive system. Symptoms include bloating, constipation, or even gaining weight.

5. Losing essential nutrients

When you eat raw foods, your body can lose some of the essential nutrients from these foods. Many of the nutrients in vegetables and meat are stored in their fibers. Unfortunately the human body is not yet fully able to break down fiber to take nutrients from raw foods. It is recommended, to cook food sources in advance in order to break down the nutrients and minerals from food sources.