How does cooking affect a nutrient loss in food?

Answer by  jbman (6)

Cooking makes foods lose nutrients, because they are killed with heat, or in the case of boiling; the nutrients are extruded into the water. Some foods, such as fruits and vegetables lose a lot of nutrients, other foods, such as meats, lose very little nutrients. Pasta should be cooked al dente to retain nutrients.

Answer by  Inge (484)

Nutrients are mostly found in the outer layer of foods. Excessive heating (above 114F), starts to break down the minerals and nutrients. The longer exposed to heat and allowing to penetrate thru foods, the less nutrition is kept. If cooking is needed, try to avoid water immersion.