Sandpaper in a nutrition class?

Sandpaper in a nutrition class? You bet! Students in the ShapeUp program use sandpaper to demonstrate the process of refining whole grains. It's a fun activity that helps students remember the difference between whole and refined grains and understand why it's so important to eat plenty of whole grains.

First, Registered Dietitian Elizabeth Gallardo draws a diagram on the board to teach the Belmont High students about the various parts of a whole grain: the bran, germ, and endosperm. Then she explains that the fiber in the bran helps with digestion and regular bowel movements.

The students then rub a whole grain between two pieces of sandpaper to remove the bran and germ, illustrating the process of refining a grain -- which food processors do to create white bread or white pasta, for example. The students discuss their observations in small groups and come to the conclusion that it's better to eat whole grains, which retain the nutrients and fiber that our bodies need.

We incorporate hands-on, interactive activities like this to make nutrition information more memorable and easy to understand. You can help ensure that we have enough supplies and educational materials to continue our ShapeUp workshops by donating $10 or more to our Halloween "Trick or Treat: Give Me Something Good to Eat" fundraiser: http://www.crowdrise.com/sosmentortrickortreat/fundraiser/. Thank you for your support!