Misconceptions
True or false: Food low in calories is healthier than food high in calories
False: while consistently eating food with a high-caloric content may cause you to gain weight over time, food that is high in calories is not inherently bad.
What is protein and why do we need it?
Bonus: name a food that is high in protein
Protein is a nutrient your body needs to grow and repair cells, and to work properly.
Bonus: meat, tofu, etc.
True or False: you cannot eat a sugary treat everyday and remain healthy
False: It is perfectly fine to have a treat as long as we're eating healthy, well rounded meals
True or False: Grain products (bread, pasta, rice) are fattening.
False: Grain products will not necessarily be fattening but eating whole grains will provide you with more nutrients and fibre than processed/refined grains.
What is fat and why do we need it?
Bonus: what are the two types of dietary fat?
Dietary fats are essential to give your body energy and to support cell growth. They also help protect your organs and help keep your body warm. Fats help your body absorb certain nutrients and produce important hormones. Fats will keep you full for a long time, preventing you from snacking and over-eating.
Bonus: Saturated (solid at room temp, animal fats) and Unsaturated (from plants, liquid at room temp.)
True or False: The food pyramid must be followed to eat healthy
False: The food pyramid is outdated and no longer followed.
True or False: Going Vegan/vegetarian will make you lose weight and make you healthier.
False: while going vegan may require you to eat more vegetables, it does not guarantee a healthy lifestyle. You can still gain weight or eat improperly even while vegan.
What are carbs and why do we need them?
Bonus: name an example of carbs
Carbohydrates — fiber, starches and sugars — are essential food nutrients. Your body turns carbs into glucose (blood sugar) to give you the energy you need to function. Complex carbs in fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods are less likely to spike blood sugar than simple carbs (sugars).
Bonus: rice, oatmeal, breads/grains
How much water should you drink in a day
Around 4 litres: (about the size of a milk jug)
True or False: fruit is more healthy than fruit juice
True: A fruit will usually have more nutrients and fibre than fruit juice
What is a micronutrient?
Bonus: Name an example
Micronutrients are essential vitamins and minerals needed by the body in small amounts for various functions.
Bonus: vitamins, minerals (zinc, iron)
True or false: You can only eat one once a week to remain healthy
True or False: Gatorade is better than water for you because it has electrolytes
False: gatorade usually has added sugar and coloring
What is a macronutrient?
Types of food that are needed in large quantities:
Fats
Protein
Carbs
False: Smart water is lying to you