Learning Outcomes
i. Describe the concept of a balanced diet.
ii. Outline the components of a balanced diet.
iii. Relate the importance of matching diet to individual characteristics like age, sex, and level of activity.
Summary of Lesson
In this lesson, we'll delve into what constitutes a balanced diet, a crucial element for maintaining optimal health and well-being. We'll discover how this diet must adapt to the changes in our bodies and lifestyles as we grow and change. A balanced diet fuels our daily activities and supports growth and development, making it essential for a healthy life.
A balanced diet is the perfect mix of various food groups that provides your body with all the nutrients it needs. It includes grains for energy, proteins for muscle repair, fruits and vegetables for vitamins and minerals, dairy for bone strength, and fats for long-term energy storage. But not everyone's plate will look the same—what a young boy needs to fuel his growth spurt is different from what an active woman needs or what an elderly man might require for his health. The right diet keeps your energy up, whether you're a student, an athlete, or anyone in between.
List of Important Questions for Self-Study
i. What are the key components of a balanced diet?
ii. How should a balanced diet vary for children, adults, and the elderly?
iii. What dietary considerations should be made for males versus females?
iv. Why should an athlete's diet be different from someone less active?
Important Terminologies Used in Lesson
i. Balanced Diet: A diet that includes all food groups in the correct proportions for health and well-being.
ii. Nutrients: Components in foods that an organism uses to survive and grow.
iii. Caloric Intake: The total number of calories consumed from foods and beverages.
iv. Energy Expenditure: The number of calories used by the body in a given time period.
v. Dietary Requirements: The amounts and types of food needed for healthy body function.
vi. Metabolism: The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms.
