Food Chapter Notes | Science Olympiad for Class 3 PDF Download

What is Food?

Food refers to the substances we consume to supply our bodies with the necessary energy and nutrients required for growth, maintaining health, and proper functioning. This includes items such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and meat.

Nutrition in Food

Different types of food provide our bodies with various benefits to keep us feeling strong and energized.

• Food is made up of several essential nutrients that are vital for our body's health.
• Each type of food we eat offers a different mix 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.Carbohydrates 

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.Fats

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.Proteins

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.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.Minerals

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?

• A balanced diet is crucial because no single food can provide all the necessary nutrients in the right amounts. It involves consuming a variety of foods in the right proportions, including carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water, all of which are essential for good health.
• Water plays a particularly important role as it aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, and the overall functioning of the body.

Junk Food

• Junk food refers to foods that are tasty but generally lack essential nutrients.
• These foods are often high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, while being low in vitamins, minerals, and fiber that our bodies need to stay healthy.
• Examples of junk food include candy, chips, cookies, soda, and fast food like burgers and fries.
• While it is okay to enjoy junk food occasionally, it is important to consume healthier foods more often to maintain strength and overall health.