Before we think about what to eat, it’s important to understand how the body uses food and what it needs to function properly. Eating a balanced diet helps you have more energy for your day-to-day life, grow healthily, improve your concentration at school and strengthen your immune system. In this section, you’ll find key concepts about digestion, nutrients, water, portion sizes and healthy choices, explained in simple terms to help you plan more balanced weekly meals, make good choices most of the time, and understand how your diet affects your wellbeing and that of the planet.
Planning and Growing Healthily
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Eating Weel for our Health and the Planet
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Eating well isn’t about being perfect; it’s about making good choices most days. A colourful, varied and balanced meal helps give your body energy, protects your health and, at the same time, looks after the planet. Small choices, such as opting for fresh food, eating more vegetables and drinking water, make a big difference.
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The journey of food: the digestive tract and digestion
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The body converts food into energy and nutrients through digestion. Food travels through the digestive tract, where it is chewed, broken down and divided into smaller parts that the body can use. Understanding this ‘journey’ helps you realise why it is important to chew your food thoroughly, eat slowly and make balanced choices.
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5 Servings that count
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Fruit and vegetables are essential for good health: they provide vitamins, minerals and fibre, and protect the body against illness. Five portions a day help to boost immunity, aid digestion and increase energy levels. The more variety, the better!
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The Superpower of Water
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Water is the drink of choice. It helps regulate body temperature, keep the brain active, transport nutrients and flush out what the body doesn’t need. Drinking water throughout the day improves concentration, mood and physical performance. Soft drinks and juices are no substitute for water.
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Energy and Nutrients
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Food provides the body with two types of ‘fuel’: energy to help you move and think, and nutrients that help you grow, repair tissues and maintain bodily functions. Carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals work together to keep the body balanced and strong.