Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - JHS 2

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify food commodities from animal and plant sources
• Explain the various functions of food in the body
• Describe how food gives us energy, helps us grow, and keeps us healthy
• Understand the importance of a balanced diet

Lesson summary

Food is a central part of our lives and culture in Ghana. We enjoy meals like *waakye*, *fufu*, *kenkey*, and *jollof rice*. But have you ever stopped to think *why* we need to eat? Food is not just for filling our stomachs; it is the fuel and building material for our bodies. This lesson explores the three main jobs or functions of food. Understanding these functions helps us make wise food choices to grow strong, stay healthy, have energy to learn and play, and prevent sickness.

Lesson notes

Food performs three main functions in our bodies. Think of your body as a complex and busy construction site that is also a factory and a fortress. It needs energy to run, materials to build, and security to protect it. Function 1: To Provide Energy (Energy-Giving Foods) Just like a car needs petrol to move or a charcoal stove needs charcoal to produce heat, our bodies need energy to do everything. This includes obvious activities like running, walking, and playing football, as well as less obvious ones like breathing, thinking in class, and the beating of our hearts.

The nutrients that provide this energy are Carbohydrates and Fats/Oils. Carbohydrates: These are the main source of energy for the body. They are like the primary fuel. Ghanaian Examples: Roots & Tubers: Yam (*ampesi*, pounded yam), Cassava (*gari*, *fufu*, *banku*), Cocoyam. Cereals: Maize (*kenkey*, *banku*, porridge), Rice (*waakye*, plain rice, jollof), Millet. Fruits: Plantain (ripe and unripe), Banana. Sugars: Sugar, Honey. Fats and Oils: These provide a more concentrated source of energy. They also help to keep the body warm and protect vital organs. Ghanaian Examples: Oils: Palm oil, Groundnut oil, Coconut oil, Shea butter (*nkuto*). Other Sources: Avocado ('paya'), Groundnuts (*nkate*), Melon seeds (*agushie*), Fatty fish. Function 2: To Build and Repair Body Tissues (Body-Building Foods) As young people in JHS, your bodies are growing rapidly. You are getting taller and stronger. This growth requires building materials. When you get a cut or a wound, your body needs to repair it. Food provides the materials for this building and repairing process.

The nutrient responsible for this function is Protein. Proteins: These are the building blocks of the body. They build muscles, skin, hair, and all body organs. They are also essential for repairing worn-out or damaged tissues. Animal Protein Sources (often considered high-quality): Fish (Tilapia, Herring, Mackerel, Salmon, *Koobi*, *Momoni*) Poultry (Chicken, Guinea fowl, Turkey) Meat (Beef, Goat, Mutton) Eggs Milk and Milk Products (*Wagashi* - a local cheese) Plant Protein Sources: Legumes (Beans, Peas) Nuts and Seeds (Groundnuts, Soya beans, Cashew nuts) Melon seeds (*Agushie*) Function 3: To Protect the Body and Regulate its Processes (Protective Foods) Your body needs to be protected from diseases and germs. It also has many processes, like digestion and blood circulation, that need to be regulated to work smoothly. Protective foods act like the body's security guards and maintenance team.

The nutrients responsible for this are Vitamins and Minerals. They are needed in small quantities but are very essential. Vitamins: Vitamin A: For good eyesight and healthy skin. Sources: Palm oil, Carrots, Mangoes, Pawpaw, Dark green leafy vegetables (*kontomire*, spinach). Vitamin B Complex: Helps release energy from food. Sources: Whole grains (brown rice), Eggs, Meat, Beans. Vitamin C: Helps fight infections like colds, heals wounds, and keeps gums healthy. Sources: Oranges, Pineapple, Tomatoes, Bell peppers (*kpakpo shito*), Guava. Vitamin D: Helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones and teeth. Sources: Sunlight on the skin, Eggs, Fatty fish. Minerals: Calcium: For strong bones and teeth. Sources: Milk, Small fish eaten with bones (*Keta school boys*), Dark green vegetables. Iron: For making healthy red blood to carry oxygen. Lack of iron causes anaemia (feeling tired and weak). Sources: *Kontomire*, Red meat, Beans, Eggs. Iodine: For proper brain function. Sources: Iodized salt, Seafood.