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Why do we need Food? – Milo, age 5, Cowes, Victoria.
Just like a mobile phone needs to be recharged every day, so does your body. You need to eat Food and drink water every day to keep your body going. Food gives you the energy to grow, play games, be healthy, and learn. Every day, you need to eat different foods from the five food groups.
Nuts, oils, and spreads are also essential in small quantities.
Fresh Food is always best. Processed foods are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. This is why soft drinks, cake, and lollies are not recommended. You can become sick if you consume a lot of these foods.
The Food Journey
Your teeth and tongue begin to break down the Food that you consume. The chewed-up Food is then passed into your digestive tract when you swallow. The Food is then broken down into small pieces, which the body can use. This is known as digestion.
Nuts, oils, and spreads are good sources of healthy fats. Wholegrain breads, vegetables, and fruits contain carbohydrates and fiber. The carbohydrates and fats are used as energy by your body to run and play sports. Fibre allows the Food to pass easily through the tube so that you can poop in the toilet.
Vegetables, fruits, and grains contain carbohydrates and fiber. Flickr/Sonny Side Up!, CC BY
Protein is found in milk, meat, legumes, and eggs. Protein is used by your body to repair any cuts and grow fingernails, hair, and skin.
In small quantities, vitamins and minerals are found in Food. They keep your body healthy.
Vitamin A, found in orange vegetables such as carrots and meat, helps you see in the darkness. Vitamin C, found in oranges and other citrus fruits, helps the body fight bacteria that could make you sick.
Calcium, found in dairy products, is a mineral that helps to strengthen your bones. Iron, which is located in some cereals and meats, helps oxygen to travel throughout your body.
Tummy rumbles
Have you ever heard your stomach grumbling or growling? If your stomach rumbles, it is a sign that you are hungry. You can stop eating when your stomach feels full.
It is important to drink water every day. Water helps the body and mind function properly. You should drink water if you are sweating and hot from playing sports.
You will be tired and unable to play or learn if you don’t eat and drink water.
You’ll be fine as long as you consume a variety of foods every day and regularly drink water.
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