Incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet on a regular basis helps you to meet your daily requirements for vitamins, minerals and fiber. Additionally, these foods are excellent sources of antioxidants and phytochemicals (plant-based nutrients) that support our health in numerous ways. It is important to choose a variety of produce based on the type, color and preparation method. Various preparation methods can affect content and bioavailability of nutrients. While some nutrients will dissipate quickly with heat, others become more readily absorbed after being cooked.