Food and its Functions

Food is like fuel for our bodies. It provides the energy we need to carry out various activities in our daily life. Some important functions of food are:

a) Food provides the necessary nutrients that help our bodies grow and develop properly.

b) Food serves as an energy source for our bodies. This energy is then used by our muscles and organs to perform physical activities and carry out daily tasks.

c) Food also aids in the repair and maintenance of our body and ensures that our body functions properly and can heal itself when injured.

d) Eating a balanced diet and consuming nutritious food is vital for maintaining good health and well-being.

e) Food provides us with the essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that support the proper functioning of our body systems and help prevent various illnesses.

Nutrients in Our Food

Food contains important substances called nutrients. These nutrients are special and they are essential for our body's growth and maintenance. There are seven main nutrients that our body needs to stay healthy: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, water, and fibre. Each of these nutrients has its own important role in keeping our body strong and working properly.

1. Carbohydrates

Functions:

a) Foods that have a lot of carbohydrates are known as energy-giving foods because they give us the energy we need to do different activities every day.
b) These foods are like fuel for our bodies and help us stay active and play.

Sources: Rice, Bread, Pasta, Potatoes, Cereals

2. Fats

Functions:

a) Fats store energy in our bodies.
b) They also help protect our body from the cold and keep our internal organs safe.
c) Foods that have a lot of fats are also known as energy-giving foods because they provide us with energy to do things.

Sources: Butter, Oils, Avocados, Nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and peanuts), Seeds, Cheese

3. Proteins

Functions:

a) Proteins are like building blocks for our body.
b) They help build and repair cells that are damaged, and they also help with body maintenance.
c) Foods that have a lot of proteins are known as body-building foods.

Sources: Chicken, Fish, Eggs, Beans, Lentils, Tofu, Milk, Cheese

4. Vitamins

Functions:

a) Vitamins are found in fruits and vegetables, which we call protective foods.
b) They contain vitamins and minerals that protect us from diseases and keep us healthy and strong.
c) Vitamins help us have good vision, healthy gums, and glowing skin.

Sources: Fruits, Vegetables, Citrus fruits, Leafy greens, Dairy products

5. Minerals

Functions:

a) Minerals are substances that help in making our bones and teeth strong.
b) Some minerals have specific jobs, like calcium helps make our bones strong, iron helps our blood carry oxygen, and zinc helps our body fight off germs.

Sources: Dairy products, Leafy greens, Nuts and seeds, Seafood

6. Water

Functions:

a) Water is essential for our bodies.
b) It helps maintain body temperature, carries minerals and vitamins to different parts of the body, and aids in digestion.

Sources: Clean water, Juices, Water from fruits and vegetables

7. Fibre

Functions:

a) Fibre, also known as roughage, helps in getting rid of undigested food from our bodies.
b) It helps in keeping our digestive system healthy, gives us energy and protects us from diseases.

Sources: Whole grains, Legumes, Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts and seeds, Oats