5 Food Groups

The 5 Food Groups

To keep your body running like a well-oiled machine, you need to eat a variety of foods. Scientists and doctors group these foods into five main categories. Each group provides different "building blocks" (nutrients) that your body needs to grow, stay strong, and have energy.

1. Fruits

Fruits are the sweet treats of nature. They are packed with vitamins and fiber.

• What they do: They help your body heal cuts and keep your skin and hair healthy.
• Examples: Apples, bananas, berries, melons, and oranges.
• Tip: Try to eat whole fruits instead of just drinking juice to get more fiber!

2. Vegetables

Vegetables are often savory and come in every color of the rainbow.

• What they do: They are like "bodyguards" that protect you from getting sick.
• Examples: Carrots (roots), spinach (leaves), broccoli (flowers), and corn.
• Tip: The darker the color (like dark green or deep orange), the more nutrients they usually have!

3. Grains

Grains come from cereal plants. They provide carbohydrates, which are your body’s main source of fuel.

• What they do: They give you the "Go Power" to run, jump, and play all day.
• Examples: Bread, pasta, rice, oatmeal, and cereal.
• Tip: Choose "whole grains" (like brown rice or whole-wheat bread) because they keep you full longer.

4. Protein

Protein is the "building block" for your muscles and organs.

• What they do: They help your body build and repair muscle, skin, and blood.
• Examples: Chicken, beef, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and tofu.
• Tip: Beans and nuts are great protein sources if you don't eat meat!

5. Dairy

Dairy products are usually made from milk. They are high in calcium.

• What they do: Calcium is essential for building strong bones and healthy teeth.
• Examples: Milk, cheese, and yogurt.
• Tip: If you can't have milk, foods like fortified soy milk or almond milk can also give you calcium.

How to Build a Healthy Plate

A great way to remember how much to eat is to look at your plate:

• Half your plate should be Fruits and Vegetables.
• One quarter should be Grains.
• One quarter should be Protein.
• A side of Dairy.

Lesson Summary

• Fruits and Veggies keep you healthy and protected.
• Grains give you energy to move.
• Protein builds your muscles.
• Dairy makes your bones and teeth strong.