Our Food Needs

Why do we eat?

Food not only Satisfies your hunger, but also supplies you with nutrients.

Nutrients are chemicals from food that your body needs in order to survive.

Food helps you meet PHYSICAL and PSYCHOLOGICAL needs

Nutrition

Nutrition is the study of these nutrients and how they are used by the body

Good nutrition is used to describe a person who’s food choices provide all of the nutrients they need and in the right amounts

Nutrition

Good nutrition is important for your overall physical, emotional and intellectual health and well-being. With this improved overall health and wellness, you will also have:

improved quality of life

increased life span

Greater energy levels

Stronger immune system

Improved self-confidence and self-esteem

Improved relationships

Improved ability to manage and control stress

Psychological Needs

Psychological needs have to do with your mind and emotions. Food meets the following psychological needs:

security and comfort

sense of belonging

strengthen relationships

enjoyment

Security and Comfort

We gain security from knowing that we have the basic necessities of life (having enough food, shelter, etc). Maslow’s hierarchy!

Most people in Canada have enough food to feed their families and feel secure

Food also helps people feel better during stressful times. These foods are called comfort foods and are usually associated with feelings of being cared for or rewarded

Sense of belonging

Food can help create a bond between people, which will give us a sense of belonging

Food is often associated with social events such as going to a movie, small gathering or large parties.

We also use food to welcome friends and guests or to show appreciation or concern

Strengthen relationships

Contributing to the preparation and serving of meals can:

strengthen family relationships

create feelings of self-pride

provide time to talk and laugh together

Food and customs also help extended families connect with one another, share culture and celebrate

Enjoyment

Food can add to your sense of enjoyment of particular events or situations.

Preparing food can also give you a chance to be creative and learn new skills

Quiz - All’s well that starts well

Complete the quiz

How would you rate your overall wellness?

Make a list of goals to improve your wellness

Develop an action plan for one-week period that will help you meet your goals. (Make it realistic and attainable).