Amanda Johns on Eating a Raw Food Diet

Amanda owns a business called A New You Raw, and teaches Raw Food Classes and delivers "made to order" foods. She also works at The Jacksonville Health and Wellness Center as a Restorative Health Instructor. Not only is she a raw vegan but she also is an Integrative Nutrition Coach, Soul Lightening Acupressure Practitioner, Licensed Spiritual Healer Coach and a Licensed Massage Therapist. We were able to catch up with Amanda during a break in her busy schedule.

What led you to start A New You Raw?
There was a time in my life when my health was not so marvelous. I had been sick for many years before going to the hospital with uncertainty of death. I went to the emergency room, almost too late! I had lost all but three units of blood and had a weak pulse! I was then diagnosed with congestive heart failure, anemia and auto-immune issues. I felt like my whole life was gone in a flash. This was the most frightening time of my life. Scared and confused I still felt that I had a strong will to live. Later, I realized this event was actually a blessing in disguise. My life was transformed and in this transformation, I found my true path in this beautiful life.

If someone is new to raw eating what is one tip or advice you would give them?
Life can be busy sometimes, so start simple with fruits and veggies that are easy to peel and carry with you.

What's your guilty pleasure when it comes to food?
My guilty pleasure is salty foods...like crackers or salty nuts, I even love chocolate that has salt and nuts. On my "no list" would be Red Wine or processed foods like blue chips, but I sneak them in occasionally.

What's your favorite local restaurant?
I have two that I love: Present Moment Cafe has raw food dishes that are amazing and the atmosphere is adorable. Southern Roots has a great selection of healthy food choices and buys mostly local veggies.

What does Jacksonville need or is lacking in terms of the local food scene?
Possibly more awareness about buying and supporting local farmers and farmers' markets. Also creating hype around community gardening, which would involve supporting our local restaurants with fresh foods.

Is there something, in particular, that draws you to food? If so, what is it and how has it captured your attention?
I feel that all life is nurtured with food and my life has been revolutionized by eating healthy. I fell in love with the vision of the plant-based lifestyle and how it cultivates a healthy environment for our future generation.