Nutrition and Healthy Eating Habits
Welcome to today’s lesson on Nutrition and Healthy Eating Habits. In this lesson, we will explore the importance of balanced nutrition and discover practical tips for maintaining a healthy diet.
Initial Breakout Room Discussion
In breakout rooms, discuss the following questions:
  1. What does a balanced diet mean to you?
  1. How do you currently try to maintain a healthy diet?
  1. What challenges do you face when trying to eat healthily?
  1. What are some of your favorite healthy foods, and how do you incorporate them into your meals?
Why Nutrition Matters
Nutrition is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Proper nutrition provides the body with the necessary energy, supports bodily functions, and helps prevent chronic diseases.
Key Vocabulary
Digestive Tract
The series of organs in the body responsible for digestion.
Hydrate
To cause to absorb water.
Probiotics
Live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system.
Trace Minerals
Minerals needed by the body in very small amounts for various functions.
Standardize
To make something conform to a standard.
Components of a Balanced Diet
1
Fruits and Vegetables
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
2
Whole Grains
Provide sustained energy and fiber.
3
Lean Proteins
Essential for muscle repair and growth.
4
Healthy Fats
Important for brain function and cell health.
5
Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial for bodily functions.
Understanding Balanced Nutrition
Video Title: Nutrition in 3 Minutes | Start Eating Healthier! Watch this video to learn more about creating a balanced diet and the importance of various food groups.
Let's Watch!
Comprehension Questions
1. What should your first meal of the day include, and why is it important to standardize it?
2. Why is it recommended to have a big green salad once per day?
3. What are the benefits of drinking enough water throughout the day?
4. What is the "perfect plate" guideline for dinner?
Comprehension Answers
1. Your first meal of the day should be standardized and could include options like a protein shake, oatmeal, or eggs. This helps increase fat burn, keep energy levels stable, and reduce decision fatigue.
2. A big green salad is recommended once per day because green vegetables are excellent for digestive health, rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals.
3. Drinking enough water throughout the day helps maintain energy levels, reduces hunger, and prevents turning to sugary drinks. It also helps in avoiding morning headaches and improving overall hydration.
4. The "perfect plate" guideline for dinner includes half of the plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with healthy carbs or fats. This helps ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients.
Vocabulary Review
Complete the following sentences using the key vocabulary words:
  1. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ means to make something conform to a standard.
  1. The \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ is the series of organs in the body responsible for digestion.
  1. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system.
  1. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ means to cause to absorb water.
  1. \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ are minerals needed by the body in very small amounts for various functions.
Vocabulary Review Answers
1. Standardize means to make something conform to a standard.
2. The digestive tract is the series of organs in the body responsible for digestion.
3. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system.
4. Hydrate means to cause to absorb water.
5. Trace minerals are minerals needed by the body in very small amounts for various functions.
More Practical Tips for Healthy Eating
Plan Your Meals
Prepare meals in advance to ensure they are balanced and nutritious.
Read Labels
Check food labels for nutritional information and avoid processed foods high in sugar and unhealthy fats.
Portion Control
Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.
Incorporate Variety
Include a variety of foods to ensure you get all essential nutrients.
Breakout Room Discussion
In breakout rooms, discuss the following questions:
  1. How can you incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your daily meals?
  1. What are some healthy snack alternatives to processed foods?
  1. How do you plan to improve your eating habits based on what you’ve learned today?
Nutrition Challenge
Challenge yourself to create a balanced meal plan for the next week. Feel free to share your plan with the group and discuss the changes you’ve made to your diet. Let us know how you feel after following the plan for a week!