Grade 3 Nutrition Classnotes

Nutrition and Health

• Nutrition is about the foods we eat and how they affect our health and growth.
• There are five food groups that give our bodies the different nutrients they need: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• They make our bodies strong and help us fight off germs.
• Examples of fruits include apples, bananas, and oranges.
• Examples of vegetables include carrots, spinach, and broccoli.

Grains

• Grains, such as rice, bread, and pasta, give us energy to play and do our daily activities.
• They also have fiber that helps our digestion.

Protein

• Protein foods, such as meat, fish, eggs, and beans, give our bodies the building blocks to grow and repair muscles, bones, and other body parts.

Dairy

• Dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, give us calcium for strong bones and teeth.
• They also have protein for growth.

Importance of Balanced Diet

• Eating a variety of foods from each group is important to have a balanced diet.
• We should try to eat fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy every day.

Healthy and Unhealthy Foods

• Healthy foods make our bodies grow strong, while unhealthy foods can make us feel sick or tired.
• It's okay to enjoy treats occasionally, but we should choose healthy foods most of the time.

Breakfast and Hydration

• Breakfast is the most important meal of the day because it fuels our brains and bodies.
• Eating a healthy breakfast, like whole-grain cereals, fruits, and dairy products, gives us the energy we need to start the day right.
• Drinking water keeps us hydrated, helps our bodies function properly, and keeps us cool.

Eating Mindfully

• Eating mindfully means paying attention to how we eat and enjoying our food.
• Eating slowly, chewing well, and listening to our body's signals of hunger and fullness are all part of eating mindfully.
• This can help with digestion and make us appreciate our food more.