6th Grade Nutrition

Definitions Nutrition- The process of taking in food and using it for energy, growth, and good health. Nutrients - Substances in foods that your body needs to grow, have energy, and stay healthy.

6 Essential Nutrients 1. Carbohydrates 2. Water 3. Fats 4. Protein 5. Vitamins 6. Minerals

Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. About 45 to 65 percent of your daily energy needs come from carbohydrates. Types- Simple- Sugars (fruits) Complex- Starches (bread, pasta, potatoes) Fiber- Cannot be broken down (oats, bran, beans, peas, berries) Ted Ed video on Carbohydrates

Water Water is the most essential nutrient. Helps digest and absorb food. Regulates body temperature. Carries nutrients and oxygen to cells. Removes toxins and wastes. Cushions joints. Protects tissues and organs from shock and damage. TED ED- What would happen if you didn’t drink water?

Fats Fats are essential for many things: Provides energy. Healthy cells Builds brains Helps use vitamins Makes hormones Healthier skin Cushions organs

Types of fats Saturated Fats- Solid at room temp. (Not healthy for you) Examples- Butter, meat fat, cheese Unsaturated Fats- Liquid at room temp. (healthier for you) Examples- Avocados, plant foods such as olive oil, nuts TED ED- What is fat?

Proteins The nutrient group used to build and repair cells. Sources- meats, nuts, beans, soybeans, dairy products, fish TED ED- Why don’t we eat bugs?

Vitamins Substances that help your body fight infections and use other nutrients, among other jobs. Ted Ed- How do Vitamins work?

Minerals Elements that help form healthy bones and teeth, and regulate certain body processes. 7 Key Minerals- Calcium, Chromium, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc, Potassium, Selenium

Calories Calorie is the amount of energy found in food. It is a unit for measuring heat equal to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one gram of water one degree Celsius. Your diet should be anywhere from 2000 to 2500 calories a day, depending on output.

Calories (continued) How many calories in a pound? 3500 calories equal a pound. What is an empty calorie? An empty calorie is a calorie that has no nutritional value. TED ED- What is a calorie?

Nutrient Dense Nutrient Dense is a food/drink that is low in calories but also has many nutrients. A soda is not nutrient dense, but a bunch of grapes are.

MyPlate Why are some sections bigger than others?

MyPlate