Food Chapter Notes | Science Olympiad for Class 3 PDF Download

What is Food?

Food is what we eat to give our bodies the energy and nutrients they need to grow, stay healthy, and function properly. It can be something like fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, or even snacks. 

Nutrition in Food

Different types of food provide our bodies with different kinds of goodness to help us feel strong and full of energy. 

• Food consists of various nutrients essential for our body's well-being. 
• Each type of food we consume provides a distinct combination and amount of nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, fats, and minerals. 

Nutrients

Nutrients are the special parts of food that our bodies need to stay healthy and grow. They help give us energy, build strong bones and muscles, and keep our brains working well.  

1. Carbohydrates
   • Carbohydrates are a primary nutrient source, providing energy primarily for the brain and nervous system. They fuel various activities such as walking, dancing, and writing. Natural sources of sugars, like fruits, vegetables, milk, whole grains, and starchy foods, along with refined sugar, contribute to carbohydrate intake.
2. Fats 
   • Similarly, fats serve as an energy reserve when carbohydrates are unavailable, aid in vitamin absorption, and help regulate body temperature. Oils, nuts, dairy, and certain fats like coconut and butter are common fat sources.
3. Proteins 
   • Proteins play a crucial role in body maintenance and repair, especially in children for growth. They contribute to healthy hair, skin, muscles, and organs, as well as blood composition and oxygen transportation. Meats, fish, dairy, legumes, and nuts are rich protein sources.
4. Vitamins 
   • Vitamins support dental, bone, and skin health, aid in red blood cell formation, and bolster the immune system. Foods like broccoli, papaya, nuts, and vegetables provide essential vitamins.
5. Minerals
   • Minerals such as calcium, iron, sodium, and potassium are vital for overall health, with calcium necessary for bone strength and iron for blood formation. Sources include dairy, red meats, and leafy greens.
6. Water and dietary fiber
   • Water and dietary fiber aid digestion and waste removal, while milk is often regarded as a complete food due to its nutrient richness.

Energy requirements vary based on factors like age, gender, and physical activity level, with athletes and active individuals needing more energy.

Why do we need Balanced Diet?

Since no single food item offers all the necessary nutrients in optimal quantities, it's crucial to maintain a balanced diet to support bodily functions effectively. A balanced diet refers to an eating plan that incorporates appropriate proportions of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water, essential for maintaining good health.

Junk Food

Junk food is food that tastes really good but usually doesn't have much nutrition. 

• It's often high in things like sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, but low in things like vitamins, minerals, and fiber that our bodies need to stay healthy. 
• Examples of junk food include things like candy, chips, cookies, soda, and fast food like burgers and fries. 
• While it's okay to enjoy junk food once in a while, it's important to remember to eat more healthy foods most of the time to keep our bodies strong and healthy.