Healthy Food Groups for Kids: Fuel for Your Body (Grade 3 to 5 Science)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Food gives your body energy to move, think and grow. Different foods help in different ways. Today we will explore the five food groups and build a healthy plate!

Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber. They help your eyes, skin and body fight off sickness. Try to fill half your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables.

Grains include bread, rice, pasta and oatmeal. They give you energy to run and play. Whole grains, like brown rice and whole wheat bread, have extra fiber and keep you full longer.

Protein foods include beans, eggs, fish, chicken, nuts and tofu. Protein builds and repairs your muscles and helps you grow. Your body uses it like building blocks.

Dairy foods include milk, yogurt and cheese. They are full of calcium, which builds strong bones and teeth. Fortified soy milk is another way to get calcium.

Here is a science connection. All the energy in food first came from the Sun. Plants capture sunlight to make food. When you eat plants, or animals that ate plants, you get that stored energy.

Now it's your turn. Your lunch has a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread and an apple. Which food group is missing? Pause and try. Vegetables and dairy are missing. Add carrots and milk!

Great job! Remember, the five food groups are fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy. Each one helps your body, and food energy comes from the Sun. Practice healthy food groups in the Science Lab at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!