Component of Food

Living things take food and water and use them for a variety of purposes, such as:

• Obtaining energy
• Growth of the body
• To carry out day-to-day functions of the body
• To fight diseases

Food contains six main nutrients that our bodies need to stay healthy.

1. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates give us energy. Found in rice, bread, potatoes, and fruits.
2. Fats: Fats give us more energy than carbohydrates and help store energy for later use. They also keep our bodies warm. Found in butter, oil, nuts, and cheese.
3. Proteins: Proteins help build and repair body tissues like muscles and skin. They are essential for growth. Found in meat, eggs, beans, and lentils.
4. Fibre: Fibre helps in digestion and keeps our stomach healthy. It helps prevent constipation. Found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
5. Vitamins: Vitamins protect the body from diseases and help in proper growth. Each vitamin has a different function (e.g., vitamin C for strong immunity). Found in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
6. Minerals: Minerals like calcium and iron help build strong bones and teeth and keep the body functioning properly. Found in milk, leafy vegetables, and meat.