Functions of Various Classes of Food – JSS1 Physical & Health Education Lesson Note (Second Term)

Each class of food does a different job in the body. Carbohydrates, fats and oils supply energy, proteins build and repair body cells, vitamins protect against infection, mineral salts support blood, bones, heart, muscles and nerves, and water removes waste, aids digestion and regulates body temperature.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. State the functions of carbohydrates.
2. State the functions of proteins.
3. State the functions of fats and oils.
4. State the functions of vitamins and mineral salts.
5. State the functions of water in the body.

What are the functions of the various classes of food?

Functions of carbohydrates

1. It supplies abundant energy to the body in the form of glucose.
2. It helps the body grow stronger.
3. It satisfies hunger.

Functions of proteins

1. It repairs worn-out tissues.
2. It helps the body to grow and repair body cells.
3. It regulates body functions.

Functions of fats and oils

1. It provides high-level energy.
2. It protects delicate internal organs.
3. It provides body heat for warmth.

Functions of vitamins

Vitamins are very essential to life. They assist in the growth and development of the body tissues and help to maintain good health by protecting the body against infections.

Functions of mineral salts

1. They help blood to clot.
2. They support proper heart, muscle and nerve functions.
3. They build strong bones.
4. They help in the production of red blood cells.
5. They regulate metabolism.

Functions of water

1. It helps to remove waste products from the body.
2. It aids digestion.
3. It regulates body temperature.

Evaluation

1. State two functions of carbohydrates.
2. Which class of food repairs worn-out tissues?
3. State two ways in which fats and oils help the body.
4. Mention three functions of mineral salts.
5. State two functions of water in the body.

Assignment

1. Give one example of each class of food.
2. Outline four reasons why food is important.