Like many meat eaters and dairy lovers out there, I am intrigued by the determination a person must possess to subsist on a vegan diet.
I’m even more curious about how one lives on a totally raw vegan regimen — meaning nothing steamed, baked, fried or canned and definitely no animal products of any kind.
Someone who eats like that must not have any energy at all, right?
Wrong. And Natasha Kyssa and Mark Faul, organizers of the monthly raw vegan potluck events in the Glebe, are living examples of how you can be a raw vegan and still lead an extremely active lifestyle.
The married couple, who also run several successful business ventures promoting the vegan lifestyle, are as fit as they come, with running, rock climbing, yoga and cycling being just a few examples of their regular sports of choice.
They can also throw a pretty great party for their raw vegan pals, which is why their monthly SimplyRaw potlucks have been growing in popularity over the past few years.
As Kyssa notes, people often come from Montreal and Kingston to attend the potlucks, adding that you don’t have to be raw vegan, or even vegetarian, to come out.
“Most people are blown away when they come to the potlucks because they don’t realize how tasty raw food can be,” she says.
“The atmosphere is great and it’s a good chance for people to meet and mingle. It’s just a really fun event.”
This month’s dinner is extra special with Brendan Brazier, the Vancouver-based best-selling nutrition author, Ironman triathlete and inventor of Vega energy bars.
Brazier, who happens to be in a rare class of vegan athletes, is reading and talking about his newest book, The Thrive Diet.
“It’s a misconception that an athlete can’t be vegan, so having him talk about his experiences should make for a great night,” says Kyssa.
And if you don’t believe the food will be good, just check out their website and gaze at the photos from past events. The pictures alone are sure to make you salivate — even if you’re a diehard carnivore.
The SimplyRaw potluck and book reading starts at 6 p.m. tonight, at St. Giles Church at 174 First Ave.
Diners must bring a one-hundred per cent raw vegan dish, as well as a list of ingredients, their own plates and utensils, and of course an adventurous palate.
There is a $3 charge to cover the cost of the venue. For more info, recipe guidelines and to RSVP (as space is limited) visit www.simplyraw.ca.
