Objective
By the end of this lesson, Natalie will be able to differentiate between whole foods and processed foods, understand the health benefits of whole foods, and make informed choices about her diet.
Materials and Prep
- Notebook and pen for taking notes
- Access to a computer or tablet for research
- List of common whole foods and processed foods (can be created together during the lesson)
- Healthy snacks (whole foods) for tasting, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds
- Optional: Pictures or labels of various food items for visual comparison
Before starting the lesson, ensure that Natalie understands the basic definitions of whole foods and processed foods.
Activities
- Food Scavenger Hunt: Natalie will search through the pantry and refrigerator to find examples of whole foods and processed foods. She will categorize them into two lists and discuss her findings.
- Taste Test: Prepare a small tasting session with a selection of whole foods. Natalie will taste each item and describe the flavors and textures, noting what she enjoys most.
- Research Project: Natalie will spend some time researching the health benefits of whole foods versus processed foods online. She will summarize her findings in her notebook.
- Creative Cooking: Together, you can prepare a simple recipe using whole foods. This could be a salad or a smoothie, allowing Natalie to see how delicious whole foods can be.
Talking Points
- "Whole foods are foods that are as close to their natural state as possible. They are unprocessed or minimally processed."
- "Processed foods often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, which can be harmful to our health."
- "Eating whole foods can provide our bodies with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that help us stay healthy."
- "When we choose whole foods, we are making a choice that supports our overall well-being and can improve our energy levels."
- "It's important to read food labels carefully to understand what is in the foods we eat and to make informed choices."