- By Stephanie Winston Vann
- Business & Technology
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Owner Ashtarra Brissette explains why the hours are currently limited: “Just making a pie can take three days. Nuts can take that long to dehydrate.” While a raw foods enthusiast would know this, it can come as a surprise to people who think “raw foods” are simply fruits and vegetables. Ironically, the process involves more than just peeling and slicing produce, and Brissette’s knowledge of raw foods is both educating and enlightening. “All the high tech equipment… it’s become more of a science. You can actually create a gourmet meal using just raw foods.
Providing a variety of 100% organic, raw food meals, pre-packaged meals, smoothies, and living foods supplies, Everything Wellness Raw Foods Market maintains a cozy juice bar atmosphere while also educating the general public about the benefits of organic and raw foods. Brissette welcomes inquiries from individuals interested in incorporating a few or all aspects of the raw food diet into their daily lifestyles. “It’s about striking a balance by introducing different ideas to improve overall health.” Raw foods “enhance digestion by preserving nutrients and vitamins” as demonstrated by several clinical studies showing that the hydrochloric acid found in popular green smoothies improved individuals’ overall health by making other foods more digestible.
Brissette’s knowledgeable staff includes two former employees of the Hippocrates Health Institute in Palm Beach, Florida. Kelly Sebonich and Damon Brangman, respectively the Executive Chef and Health Educator, both help Brissette with preparation and execution of raw foods meals. Nancy Avallone, a graduate of the Finger Lakes School of Massage, is also an indispensable member of the “Wellness Team”.
Brissette does have a full plate, so to speak, as she is also a psychotherapist with an office in the DeWitt Building. She received her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Vanderbilt University.
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