The Human Body, Digestion and Healthy Habits: Class 5 Study Guide
Food gives us energy to grow and play. The body has a system that breaks it down.
Our body needs food for energy, growth and repair. Digestion is the process of breaking food into small parts that the body can use. It begins in the mouth, where teeth chew food and saliva makes it soft. Food then passes down the food pipe (oesophagus) to the stomach, where it is mixed with digestive juices. In the small intestine, nutrients pass into the blood. The large intestine absorbs water and the rest leaves the body as waste.
We have different types of teeth for different jobs. Looking after them is an important healthy habit.
Journey of food
Teeth chew; saliva softens food.
Muscles push food down.
Food is mixed with juices.
Nutrients pass into the blood.
Water is absorbed; waste leaves.
Teeth and a balanced diet
Children have 20 milk teeth that are replaced by 32 permanent teeth in adults. Incisors cut, canines tear and molars grind. Brush twice a day, rinse after eating and visit a dentist regularly. A balanced diet includes food from every group, plus water and fibre.
| Nutrient | Job in the body | Foods |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | give energy | rice, roti, potatoes |
| Proteins | growth and repair | dal, eggs, paneer |
| Fats | stored energy | ghee, nuts, oil |
| Vitamins and minerals | protect health | fruit, vegetables, milk |
| Water and fibre | digestion and cleaning | water, whole grains |
Healthy habits
Wash hands with soap before eating and after using the toilet. Drink clean, safe water. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables and limit sugary and fried snacks. Sleep for the hours advised for your age, exercise daily and keep your surroundings clean. If you feel unwell, tell an adult.
Worked example and common mistakes
Example: Why do we chew food? Chewing breaks it into small pieces and mixes it with saliva, so digestion begins. Common mistakes: thinking digestion happens only in the stomach, missing out the small intestine and treating water as unimportant. A health guide such as this one does not replace medical advice from a doctor.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. Canines. 2. In the small intestine. 3. For example, wash hands before eating and brush teeth twice a day.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Digestion breaks food into small parts.
- Nutrients pass into the blood in the small intestine.
- Teeth have different jobs.
- Eat a balanced diet and keep clean.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Name the type of teeth that tear food.
- Where does most absorption happen?
- Give two healthy habits.
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