“Happy Tummies: How Food Helps Our Digestion”
Our tummies are like little engines. Just like a car needs the right fuel to run, our bodies need the right foods to stay healthy and happy. When we eat good foods, our tummy feels good. When we don’t, our tummy might feel sore, bloated, or “yucky.”
What is Digestion?
Digestion is how our body breaks down food into tiny pieces so we can use it to give us energy to play and grow strong. Think of it like chewing a Lego block into tiny bricks — our body takes the food and makes it small enough to use.
Foods That Make Tummies Happy
- Fruits and Veggies – Apples, carrots, bananas and broccoli help our tummy work smoothly because they have fibre. Fibre is like a broom that sweeps food through our digestive system.
- Wholegrains – Wholemeal bread, brown rice and oats also have fibre. They help us go to the toilet regularly.
- Water – Our bodies need lots of water every day to help food move through our bodies easily.
- Good Bacteria Foods – Yogurt and fermented foods have “good bugs” that keep our tummy healthy and happy.
Foods That Can Upset Tummies
- Too many lollies, cakes and soft drinks can make tummies sore.
- Greasy or fried foods like hot chips and pizza can make us feel slow or heavy.
Top Tips for Happy Tummies
- Eat colourful foods (a rainbow plate).
- Drink water instead of soft drinks or juice.
- Move your body — running, climbing and playing also help digestion.
Fun Activity
Draw your favourite “tummy-friendly” food. Is it a fruit, veggie, grain or dairy? Put your drawing on your fridge at home.
