Page 48 - Active Science 5 Ebook and Activity

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The food that we eat basically has the following nutrients—

• Carbohydrates • Fats • Proteins • Vitamins • Minerals

F unctions of Food

It is essential to take proper food as food serves the following functions in our body.
• It helps us in our growth.
• It gives us energy to grow.

• It protects us from various diseases and keeps us healthy and strong.
• It helps us to repair the damaged parts of the body.

Nutrients
A nutrient is a substance present in food that provides nourishment
to the body for growth, maintenance and survival. It is important to understand the role

and quantity of various nutrients in our body. This helps us to eat the right nutrients in
the right amount and maintain a balance in our body.

For example, more protein-rich food is required by the children of a young age because
proteins are the building blocks of our body.

The functions of the various nutrients are enlisted below:

• Carbohydrates: The foods like wheat, rice, potato, corn,
fruit juices, etc., are carbohydrates and the main source
of energy for the body. These are energy-giving foods. A
major amount of carbohydrates must be included in the diet

of the people who are involved in heavy physical activities. Carbohydrates

• Fats: Fats give us more energy than carbohydrates. These
are also energy-giving foods. Ghee, vegetables, oil and
butter are rich sources of fats. However, excess fat is stored

in the body and leads to an increase in the body weight.

• Proteins: These are body-building foods. Proteins also
help in the growth of the body. Children and patients Fat

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