Understanding Healthy and Unhealthy Food for Kids (Age 7)

What are Healthy Foods?

Healthy foods are the types of foods that make our bodies feel good and keep us strong. They have many vitamins and minerals that help us grow and play. Here are some examples of healthy foods:

• Fruits: Apples, bananas, oranges, and berries are sweet and tasty!
• Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, spinach, and peppers help us stay healthy.
• Whole Grains: Foods like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal give us energy.
• Protein: Chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and nuts help our muscles grow.
• Dairy: Milk, yogurt, and cheese have calcium for strong bones.

What are Unhealthy Foods?

Unhealthy foods can be tasty, but they don’t help our bodies as much. They often have a lot of sugar, salt, or fats, which can make us feel tired and not help us grow. Here are some examples:

• Sweets: Candy, cookies, and cake can be yummy, but too much isn’t good for you!
• Fast Food: Burgers, fries, and pizza often have lots of unhealthy fats and sugars.
• Soda and Sweet Drinks: Drinks that are very sugary are not good for your teeth and health.
• Chips and Snack Foods: These can be fun to eat, but they often have too much salt and aren’t very healthy.

Why is it Important to Eat Healthy?

Eating healthy foods helps you have lots of energy to play and have fun. It also helps you concentrate better in school and keeps you from getting sick. When you eat healthy, you are taking care of your body!

How to Make Good Choices?

1. When you go to the store, ask a parent to help you pick fruits and vegetables. 2. Try to eat a rainbow of colors on your plate! Different colors mean different vitamins. 3. Drink water instead of sugary drinks most of the time. 4. Enjoy treats in small amounts, not every day!

Remember, it’s all about balance! Eating healthy foods most of the time and enjoying some treats occasionally can help you stay happy and healthy!