Charlize Theron's diet: more raw vegetables, please!

Radiantly thriving in your forties is no matter of luck, it’s much more than genetics. One of the tricks to make it happen? According to Charlize Theron—who already leads a healthy lifestyle—favouring a raw plant-based diet, might help.

Yes! The South African actress confessed to Harper’s Bazaar that not only she doesn't drink alcohol, but she also watches out what she eats including raw vegetables in her diet to keep in shape.

Going completely meat-free is not for everyone, Charlize in fact, is not a vegetarian, but including a bigger portion of raw vegetables in your diet migh have indeed benefits for your health.

Experts say that diets based on raw uncooked or ‘live’ foods are better metabolized by the body, and that they also have the plus of being low in calories and full of fiber. They argue that cooking destroys some of the natural enzymes that are important for health and digestion.

Vegetables (preferably organic and not genetically-modified), fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, grains, natural juices, and purified water are therefore essential to this diet.

Although the diet is not as novel as some might think, it is now becoming more popular as people are more aware of the impact on health of what you eat. Celebrities such as Miley Cyrus or Natalie Portman have been known for following plant-base diets. Its benefits include increased energy and improved appearance of the skin.

Swiss physician and nutritionist Maximilian Bircher-Benner discovered that those who consume less cooked food eat up to 50% fewer calories than those who follow other regular diets to lose weight.

The famous and renowned green juices, made from raw foods, are also excellent for detox diets. With their varied combinations, they are a great source of energy and full of essential nutrients for your body. "I have juices and kale and green salads every day," Charlize said to Red Magazine, "when I'm eating healthily, getting enough sleep and not drinking alcohol, that's when I look my best. That's when I'm happiest, and I think it shows."

And since this diet provides extra energy and vitality, it’s only logical that it should be combined with a good daily exercise routine. The actress is an active person, but as she explained to Harper's Bazaar, Pilates was a revelation, "It totally changed my body."

If you are thinking about trying a raw food diet, remember you should first seek advice from a professional who will help you decide if it is a diet suitable for your lifestyle and physical conditions.