A 297-word column written by Melody Thompson, a long-time vegan. Vegetarian-related questions are welcomed at forveggiesake@yahoo.com
 
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    The Fruitarian Diet is a healthy alternative that revolves around these seven fruit groups:
· Acid fruits: citrus, cranberries, pineapples
· Subacid fruits: sweet cherries, raspberries, figs
· Sweet fruits: bananas, grapes, melons
· Oily fruits: avocados, coconuts, olives
· Vegetable fruits: peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, squash
· Nuts: hazelnuts, cashews, almonds, pistachios, walnuts
· Seeds: sunflower, pumpkin, squash
    The fruitarian, or fruit, diet is a highly restrictive vegan diet. It excludes all animal products, including dairy. People following this program eat a diet consisting primarily of raw fruits. Vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, and seeds can also be eaten in moderation.