Plant foods contain compounds called phytochemicals and antioxidants, two main components in these plants have recently been recognized for their abilities to prevent disease. The best ways to get your antioxidants and phytochemicals is to eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. This is an especially good place to practice the recommendation for variety within a food group. Different nutrients are found in different foods within the groups. Vitamin B6 can be found in potatoes, bananas and whole grain cereals.
Beta carotene is plentiful in the dark green and deep yellow vegetables.
Folic acid is found in green leafy vegetables, asparagus, broccoli, whole-grain cereals, and other enriched grains. As an added bonus, many of these foods are good sources of fiber. Dietary fiber is important to good health. It helps the digestive tract work well and can be important in helping to control intestinal symptoms of opportunistic infections. Fiber appears to help prevent some types of cancer and can reduce cholesterol levels.