Science · Health Science
Hunting for Health — Nutrition
Reading comprehension passage and printable worksheet about nutrition, food groups, and how to make healthy food choices — for grades 3–6.
Subject
Science
Grade Level
Grades 3–8
Resource Type
Lesson Plan
Format
Lesson + PDF
Reading Passage
Hunting for Health
Every day, your body needs a variety of nutrients to grow, repair itself, and have the energy to do everything you want to do. Nutrients are substances found in food that your body uses to stay healthy. The major groups of nutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water. Each type of nutrient plays a different role in keeping your body working properly.
Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. They are found in foods like bread, pasta, rice, fruits, and vegetables. When you eat carbohydrates, your body breaks them down into glucose, a simple sugar that your cells use for fuel. Proteins are the building blocks of your body. They help build and repair muscles, skin, and other tissues. Good sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, beans, and nuts.
Fats are also an important source of energy and help the body absorb certain vitamins. Healthy fats, found in foods like avocados, nuts, and olive oil, support brain function and cell health. Vitamins and minerals are needed in smaller amounts but are essential for a wide range of body functions. Vitamin C helps the immune system fight illness. Calcium strengthens bones and teeth. Iron carries oxygen in the blood.
Water is one of the most important nutrients of all — your body is made up of about 60 percent water. Every system in your body depends on water to function. Water helps regulate body temperature, carries nutrients to cells, and removes waste products. Staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the day is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do for your health.
Making healthy food choices means eating a variety of foods from all the major food groups every day. Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Whole grains provide sustained energy. Lean proteins support muscle health. Dairy products or fortified alternatives provide calcium and vitamin D. By ‘hunting for health’ in the foods you choose each day, you give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Printable Worksheet
Printable PDF · 3 pages
Hunting for Health Nutrition Reading Comprehension Worksheet
Printable worksheet includes the reading passage and comprehension questions about nutrients, food groups, and making healthy food choices. Includes answer key.
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