C

calorie

The energy store in food is measured in calories, which is the amount of heat at a pressure of one atmosphere to raise the temperature of one gram of water one degree Celsius.

carbohydrates

provide energy. Sugars and starches are sources of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide a great part of the energy in our diets.

D

diet

A healthy diet provides all the nutrients we need in a day. The amount a child needs from each food group depends on age, gender and daily physical activity. Children who are very physically active, for example, need more than children who get little or no physical activity.

digestion

the process of breaking up food into smaller and smaller parts so that your body can use the nutrients that are in the food.

digestive system

the system from your

F

fats

store energy. Fats produce more than twice as much energy as carbohydrates. Fat is stored in the body for later use when carbohydrates are in short supply.

food pyramid

USDA a food guidance system developed by the USDA the that provides many options to help Americans make healthy food choices and to be active every day.

fruit

Click here for a list of fruits.

G

grains

Click here for a list of grains.

M

minerals

the parts of food that help build bones and teeth

N

nutrients

the necessary building blocks of various cell parts. These compounds include carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins and minerals. Read more

P

protein

helps your body repair and grow. Besides the muscles, protein can be found almost anywhere in the body because it is used to make cells.

R

refined grains

grains that have been milled, a process that removes the bran and germ in order to give the grains a finer texture. Example: White bread

V

vegetables

Click here for a list of vegetables.

vegetarian

one whose diet consists only of plants. Read More

vitamins

are essential in very small quantities for normal health, and that they are needed for chemical reactions in the cells, working in association with enzymes. They do not provide energy.

W

whole grains

contain the entire grain kernel, the bran, germ and and endersperm. Whole grains contain dietary fiber, iron and many B vitamins. Example: Oatmeal