Raw foodists say that enzymes are the life force of a food. Nature has given each food its unique perfect mix. These vital enzymes allow us to fully digest our foods without having to rely on our own digestive enzymes. The process of cooking destroys or alters these enzymes, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Cooked foods take longer to digest and clogs up the digestive system and arteries with partially digested fats, proteins and carbohydrates. The following health benefits are highlighted by followers of a raw food diet: more energy, improved digestion, better looking skin, weight loss, lowered risk of developing heart and cardiovascular diseases. A report published in Food Technology in October 2012 explained that plant-based diets either significantly reduce or completely eliminate people's genetic propensity to developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes type 2, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. This course instructs the student in practical ways to get started.