Classwork Series and Exercises {Social Studies – JSS2}: Classes Of Food

Nutrients are chemicals found in foods that are essential to human growth and function.

There are six classes of nutrients: carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals and water. All six have certain functions that target a different body part, and together, they ensure the state of our overall health. Some of the different functions of some nutrients are listed below in more detail:

Carbohydrates

• It is the great source of energy which we need for basic functioning and physical activity
• Carbohydrates are the primary source of fuel for our bodies, especially for our brain and during physical activity.
• Sources of carbohydrates are rice, bread, yam, fufu, garri, etc

Proteins

Proteins support the growth, repair and maintenance of tissues. The following are the foods that contain good sources of proteins; beans, meat, fish, nuts, etc

Vitamins

• Vitamins are an essential nutrient because they build and maintain healthy bones and muscle tissue.
• They also support our immune system,It maintains the health of our blood, and ensure healthy vision.
• Vitamins are micro-nutrients, meaning they are needed in small amounts to sustain our normal health and body functions.
• Some examples of common vitamins are Vitamin C and K, and the many B Vitamins.

Minerals

• Minerals assist in the regulation of many body functions, some of which involve regulating fluids and producing energy and health of our bones and blood.
• This nutrient also helps rid our body of harmful byproducts of metabolism. Some examples of well-known minerals are calcium, potassium, sodium and iron.

Water

• Water is one of the most important nutrients mainly because it is  important for our survival.
• The appropriate intake of water maintains the balance of fluids inside and outside of our cells.
• It is also critical because it assists in the regulation of nerve impulses, the excretion of waste products, muscle contractions and nutrient transport.
• We consume water in solid forms such as fruits and vegetables as well as in liquid form such as juices and soups. Drinking eight to ten glasses of water will ensure that all the above body functions are carried out properly.

Fats and Oil

•  It plays a role in maintaining healthy cell membranes
• Fats and oils support brain development and cognitive function in children.
• Fats help to protect vital organs inside the body by providing a layer of cushioning.
• They also insulate the body and regulate body temperature.
• Fats slow gastric emptying and prolong satiety, which can help both children and adults feel more satisfied with their meal.

Test and Exercise

1. Food can be defined as———–
2. There are ———– classes of food (a) 6 (b) 3 (c) 12 (d) 8
3. The great source of energy is (a) protein (b) vitamins (c) carbohydrate (d) water
4. Examples of carbohydrate foods are all except (a) beans (b) rice (c) garri (d) vegetables
5. Food is very important. True/False.     For more notes see:   http://passnownow.com/classwork-support/