Fruits
The fruit group is made up primarily of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. The water content of fruit is high, adding to the feeling of satiation after it is eaten. The carbohydrates in this group are mostly in the form of simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates are sweet in taste, and the body breaks them down rapidly. This food group is an excellent energy source. Fruit contains good sources of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Fruits such as apples, oranges, and prunes are sources of soluble fiber. The skins of fruits are fine examples of insoluble fiber. Antioxidant vitamins A and C are found in abundance in the fruit group. In general all the deep-yellow fruits are very high in beta carotene. Examples of this can be found in cantaloupes and apricots. Fruits are notably high in potassium, which is a mineral that is necessary for fluid balance in the body. Many fruits also supply folic acid, which has been proved to prevent birth defects. The phytochemicals that give fruits some of their disease-fighting potential are monoterpenes, carotenoids, ellagic acid, phenols, and flavonoids. It's important to mention the lack of fat, cholesterol, and sodium in the fruit group.
A type of phytochemical called monoterpenes contains a subgroup of phytochemicals called limonene. Limonene is found in citrus fruits. Current research, although far from definitive, does indicate that this substance contains antitumor agents. Limonene may even inhibit tumor formation.

