A bird must physically, emotionally, and mentally adapt to the overall changes, which will result from a gradual process. If drastic weight reduction is attempted it has the most shattering affect on the nervous system. A diet, which produces a rapid decrease in weight, will not give a bird's body and mind the nutrition it needs to maintain its equilibrium. Most foods which are cooked, generally have less food value, therefore a fresh, mostly raw diet is ideal. Feeding foods in their natural state, unprocessed and unrefined, contain enzymes which are important in a bird's diet.
Protein molecules are the carriers of enzyme action.
Enzymes are responsible for all body processes and work synergistically with vitamins and minerals to enhance their effectiveness. Food enzymes act as catalysts, assist in the digestion of the food that contains them and are rapidly destroyed by cooking between 105-115 degrees F or above. This applies even more so in older, aging parrots, whose enzyme production declines. A natural diet satisfies your bird's real hunger for nutrition and therefore your bird eats less. As a bird regains its strength and vigor by these natural foods, its capacity to maintain its normal weight, produce healthy offspring year after year, fight disease and heal itself is enhanced.