Food and Nutrients Lesson

Food and Nutrition

Introduction to Food and Nutrition

Food is anything we eat or drink that provides nutrients to our body. There are 6 food groups in the Caribbean. They are staples, foods from animals, legumes, fruits, vegetables, and fats and oils.

Nutrients are substances found in food that the body needs to survive. Nutrients are grouped into 2 categories. These are macronutrients and micronutrients.

Protein, fats, and carbohydrates are macronutrients. They are needed by the body in large amounts, while vitamins and minerals are micronutrients. They are needed in small amounts by the body.

Multiple Choice

How many food groups are in the Caribbean?

• 3

• 4

• 5

• 6

Open Ended

List the names of at least 3 food groups in the Caribbean.

Multiple Choice

What are nutrients?

• A meal that has food from all the different food groups in the right amount.

• Substances found in food

• Food ingredients.

• A meal that is equal in weight.

Multiple Choice

What do you call nutrients that are needed in large amounts?

• macronutrients

• large nutrients

• big nutrients

• heavy nutrients

Multiple Choice

Which pair are micronutrients?

• Proteins and minerals

• fruits and vegetables

• minerals and vitamins

• carbohydrates and fats

Importance of Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy.

Staples are excellent sources of carbohydrates.

Including carbohydrates in a balanced meal
provides sustained energy and fiber for
digestion.

Multiple Choice

Which food group is an excellent source of carbohydrates?

• Staples

• Vegetables

• Fruits

• Food from Animals

Benefits of Protein

Protein is used for building and repairing
the body.

Food from animals like lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and legumes like peanuts, almonds and beans
are excellent sources of protein.

Consuming protein in a balanced meal
helps with muscle growth, immune function
and hunger.

Multiple Choice

Which is NOT a source of protein?

• beans

• fish

• milk

• potatoes

Multiple Select

Select all that apply.

Protein is used in the body for

• energy production

• building muscles

• repairing tissues

• warmth

Incorporating Healthy Fats

Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados,
nuts, seeds, and olive oil, are essential for brain
function and hormone production.

Including a moderate amount of fats in a
balanced meal supports nutrient absorption, provides a feeling of fullness and warmth.

Eating too much fat can lead to obesity, coronary heart disease and bad cholesterol.

Multiple Select

Select all that apply.

Eating too much fatty food can cause

• obesity

• bad cholesterol

• weight lost

• coronary heart disease

Importance of Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and minerals play an important role in
various bodily functions, such as preventing and fighting off diseases and keeping the body looking healthy.

Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of essential vitamins and minerals.

Including a variety of colorful foods in a
balanced meal ensures a range of nutrients for
optimal health.

Multiple Choice

Vitamins and Minerals help the body to

• fight diseases

• produce energy

• grow

• gain weight

End of Lesson

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. (2021).
What is a balanced meal?
https://www.eatright.org/food/nutrition/nutrit
ion-facts-and-food-labels/what-is-a-balanced-
meal.