Hi there, young learners of primary 3! Welcome back! In our previous lesson, we learned about Nutrition. Today, we’re going to learn about a balanced diet.
Contents
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
- Define what a balanced diet is.
- Appreciate the importance of eating a balanced diet.
- Identify different food items that make up a balanced diet.
- Discuss with peers the benefits of a balanced diet.
Balanced Diet
What is a Balanced Diet?
A balanced diet is a meal that contains the six classes of food—carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water—in the right amounts or proportions.
Importance of a Balanced Diet
- Provides Energy for Daily Activities: Carbohydrates and fats provide the energy needed for your body to perform everyday tasks, such as walking, thinking, and playing.
- Supports Growth and Development: Proteins are essential for the growth and repair of body tissues. They help in the development of muscles, bones, and organs, especially important during the growing years.
- Boosts the Immune System: Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and zinc, help strengthen the immune system, which protects the body against illnesses and infections.
- Maintains a Healthy Weight: Eating a balanced diet helps to maintain a healthy body weight by providing the right amount of energy without overeating. This helps prevent obesity and related health issues.
- Prevents Nutritional Deficiencies and Related Diseases: A balanced diet ensures that you get all the essential nutrients your body needs, preventing deficiencies that can lead to health problems like anemia, scurvy, or rickets.
Examples of Foods in a Balanced Diet
- Carbohydrates: Bread, rice, potatoes
- Proteins: Meat, fish, eggs
- Fats: Oils, butter, nuts
- Vitamins and Minerals: Fruits, vegetables
- Water: Drinking water, soups
Example of a Balanced Diet
- Breakfast: Whole-grain cereal (carbohydrates), milk (proteins, fats), a banana (vitamins, minerals), and a glass of water.
- Lunch: Grilled chicken (proteins), brown rice (carbohydrates), steamed vegetables (vitamins, minerals), and a small salad with olive oil (fats).
- Dinner: Baked fish (proteins, fats), sweet potatoes (carbohydrates), mixed fruits (vitamins, minerals), and a glass of water.
Evaluation Questions
- What is a balanced diet?
- List two benefits of a balanced diet.
- Name one food item from each of the following groups: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
- Why is it important to eat a balanced diet?
Conclusions
Great job today! Remember, eating a balanced diet is important for staying healthy and active. Don’t forget to check the comments section if you have any questions, and use the navigation to move to the next lesson. See you in the next lesson!
