Nutrition Vocabulary
Nutrition is the study of how food provides the nutrients our bodies need to grow, stay healthy, and function properly. This free printable nutrition vocabulary list provides definitions for important terms and can be used for classroom learning, vocabulary review, and related puzzle activities.
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Nutrition Terms and Definitions
| Word | Definition |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | A nutrient found in foods like bread, rice, and fruit that provides energy for the body. |
| Cholesterol | A waxy substance in the blood that helps build cells but can be harmful in high amounts. |
| Dairy | Foods made from milk, such as cheese, yogurt, and butter. |
| Deficiency | A lack of an important nutrient needed for good health. |
| Digestion | The process of breaking down food so the body can absorb nutrients. |
| Energy | The fuel the body gets from food to move, grow, and perform daily activities. |
| Fat | A nutrient that provides energy and helps the body absorb certain vitamins. |
| Food Group | A category of foods that provide similar nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables, or grains. |
| Fruit | A plant food that is naturally sweet and rich in vitamins and fiber. |
| Grains | Foods made from wheat, rice, oats, or corn that provide carbohydrates and fiber. |
| Growth | The process of becoming larger and stronger as the body develops. |
| Health | The condition of the body when it is functioning well and free from illness. |
| Meat | A source of protein that comes from animals such as beef, chicken, or fish. |
| Mineral | A nutrient like calcium or iron that helps the body build strong bones and maintain health. |
| Nutrient | A substance in food that the body needs for energy, growth, and repair. |
| Nutrition | The study of how food affects the body and supports health. |
| Protein | A nutrient that helps build and repair muscles and body tissues. |
| Pyramid | A visual guide that shows recommended amounts of different food groups. |
| Strength | The ability of the body and muscles to work and perform physical activities. |
| Vegetables | Plant foods that provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber important for good health. |
| Vitamin | A nutrient needed in small amounts that helps the body grow and stay healthy. |
Practice What You Have Learned
These related nutrition puzzles provide a fun way to review and reinforce the vocabulary terms listed above.
Find more printable vocabulary lists to support your classroom teaching.
How to Use This Nutrition Vocabulary List
Students can review the terms before beginning an nutrition themed puzzle, refer to the definitions while completing an activity, or use the vocabulary list afterward for reinforcement. It is also useful for introducing new science words before a lesson on nutrition.
For younger students, you may want to choose a few key words from the list and discuss them together. Older students can use the full list as a study guide or as support while completing independent work.
Teaching Ideas
Try asking students to choose several vocabulary words and use each one in a sentence. They can also sort the terms.
Another simple activity is to have students cover the definitions and quiz themselves or a partner. This helps turn the list into an active vocabulary review instead of just a reference page.