July is considered as Nutrition Month in the Philippines. More than a celebration, Nutrition Month is an advocacy of public institutions to prioritize and guarantee adequate nutrition for children. Unfortunately, malnutrition is a significant challenge that a country like the Philippines continuously grapples with.
Filipino children rank among the most stunted in terms of growth when compared to their peers in other Southeast Asian nations.
One of the fundamental lessons ingrained in us during primary education revolves around the three essential food groups: Go, Grow, and Glow. This Go, Grow, Glow Foods classification system offers a simple alternative to intricate scientific terms like protein, fat, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
It is imperative for children to grasp the concept of these food items at an early age since their understanding of food is integral to their lifelong well-being.
July is considered the nutrition month in the Philippines. This month is more advocacy than a celebration for public institutions to ensure children get proper nutrition. The Philippines has a massive problem of malnutrition as children of this country are one of the most stunted in terms of growth compared to other Southeast Asian countries.
What are Go, Grow, and Glow foods?
To instill in your children the significance of Go, Grow, Glow Foods and promote a healthy diet, it is essential to have a comprehensive understanding of each food group and the specific foods that fall into these categories. Here is a refresher in case you need a quick reminder of these essential elements of a balanced diet.
What are Go foods?
Go foods play a vital role in providing us with the necessary energy to fuel our bodies throughout the day. Aptly named “Go” foods, they help keep us active and on the move. This group primarily consists of starchy carbohydrates and encompasses a range of options, including white rice and brown rice, (wheat) bread, pasta, nuts, cereals, (sweet) potatoes, corn, potatoes, grains, and other similar sources.
It is particularly crucial to incorporate Go foods into our diet during breakfast, as they ensure that our brains are adequately prepared to tackle the demands of a busy day ahead. The consumption of Go foods supplies our body with carbohydrates, which are the primary source of energy.
When we consume this nutrient, our digestive system breaks them down into glucose, a form of sugar that serves as the main fuel for our cells. This process releases energy that supports various bodily functions, such as physical activity, cognitive performance, and overall vitality.
What are Grow foods?
Grow foods are foods for our growing bodies. They are the central factors in nurturing the growth and strength of our bodies. These foods are specifically designed to support the development of crucial components such as teeth, bones, and muscles, which are vital for our overall physical well-being. In order to cultivate a healthy and robust physique, it is necessary to include a variety of Grow foods in our diet.
Excellent examples of Grow food includes protein-rich sources such as meat, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, beans, cheese, milk, and other dairy products. These foods are abundant in essential nutrients like amino acids, calcium, iron, and vitamins, which are fundamental building blocks for the body’s structural framework.
Beyond their growth-promoting properties, Grow foods also contribute to satiety and provide the feeling of fullness after each meal. This attribute is particularly advantageous for individuals seeking weight management or those looking to avoid overeating.
By incorporating an adequate amount of foods rich in proteins into our meals or meal plan, we can experience enhanced satiety, thereby reducing the tendency to snack on unhealthy or calorie-dense foods which can lead to accumulation of fats.
Grow foods are imperative for school age children for their height and weight gain as well as for breastfeeding women and sick individuals who need enough protein and other nutrients.
What are Glow foods?
Staying Radiant and Youthful
Glow food, which primarily consists of an assortment of vibrant fruits and vegetables, is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a radiant and healthy appearance. They are critical in nourishing our bodies and promoting a natural “glow” that radiates from within.
One of the notable benefits of consuming Glow foods is their ability to bolster our immune system. Fruits and vegetables are abundant in vitamins, particularly vitamin C, which acts as a potent antioxidant and supports immune function.
Regular consumption of Glow foods can help fortify our body’s natural defense mechanisms, making us more resilient against viruses and infections.
Moreover, Glow foods contribute to the maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and eyes. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in fruits like banana; and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables like carrots and cabbage, play crucial roles in promoting skin elasticity, preventing cellular damage, and supporting collagen production.
This, in turn, helps keep our skin supple, radiant, and youthful.
Additionally, Glow foods prevent constipation and other digestive problems, promoting gut health.
The spectrum of colors found in fruits and vegetables is a testament to their diverse array of beneficial compounds. Hence, one thing for parents to remember, the more color there is the healthier the plate.
By incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into your children’s meals, you can ensure a more comprehensive intake of health-promoting compounds for them.
How can kids know Go, Grow, and Glow foods?
When it comes to teaching children about the concept of Go, Grow, Glow foods, incorporating interactive and engaging methods can greatly enhance their understanding and make the learning experience more enjoyable. One effective approach is the use of flashcards specifically designed to represent each food group. To further reinforce their understanding, taking children grocery shopping can be an exciting educational activity, too!
Once inside the store, parents can encourage their children to identify and locate Go, Grow, Glow foods. This hands-on experience provides a practical application of the concepts learned through flashcards, allowing children to connect the visuals with the actual food items in a real-world context.
How do teach kids to eat Go, Grow, and Glow foods?
The tricky part of nutrition is not teaching what Go, Grow, Glow foods are. The challenging part is making your kids eat these foods. Among all these food groups, it is most difficult to make kids eat vegetables. Kids don’t eat vegetables often because they are not that sweet and caloric dense.
The best way to make your kids eat vegetables is by letting them see you enjoying vegetables. Children often imitate their parent’s actions, and seeing you eat some vegetables may encourage them to do the same. If you see them eating their veggies, do not forget to praise them for doing so.
Once again, taking children grocery shopping plays a very helpful role in encouraging them about healthy eating. Engaging children in grocery shopping and cooking fosters a sense of empowerment and ownership over their dietary choices.
As they become more involved in the selection of their food, they develop a deeper understanding of the impact of these foods on their overall well-being. These activities will allow them to take pride in making healthy food choices and will nurture a positive attitude toward nutrition.
Why is it essential to teach Go, Grow, and Glow?
Teaching children about Go, Grow, Glow foods is not only important for their immediate understanding but also for equipping them with the knowledge to make better choices as they grow older. Children are highly receptive to learning, and introducing them to these food groups lays a foundation for healthy eating habits and a balanced diet in the long run.
In the context of the Philippines’ ongoing battle against malnutrition, introducing Go, Grow, and Glow in schools becomes a significant step toward addressing this issue. While it is not a guaranteed solution, teaching Go, Grow, and Glow can certainly make a positive impact on their dietary choices and overall health.
Living Near Supermarkets
Understanding the significance of Go, Grow, and Glow foods is a crucial step toward promoting a nutritious lifestyle. However, it is important to acknowledge that access to healthy food options plays a vital role in achieving the latter. Fortunately, Camella offers an ideal solution by providing convenient access to a variety of fresh and nutritious food sources.
Located near AllDay Supermarket and other shopping centers, Camella communities nationwide ensure that residents have easy access to high-quality food products and essential ingredients.
Moreover, investing in a house and lot in Camella brings with it numerous benefits that contribute to an overall healthier lifestyle. The communities are thoughtfully designed to prioritize residents’ well-being, incorporating amenities that promote physical activity and encourage an active lifestyle.
From beautifully landscaped parks and jogging paths to fitness centers and sports facilities, Camella developments provide ample opportunities for residents to engage in regular exercise and stay physically fit.
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