Eating together has many benefits
By Melissa Sattler Gordon, El Paso County Public Health Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Division Manager
October is National Eat Better, Eat Together Month. If you haven’t started enjoying meals together, now’s a perfect time. Eating as a group isn’t just about the food; it’s also a chance to talk and connect. It can help you share your day, thoughts, and feelings with those you love.
With our busy lives, taking the time to eat together can strengthen bonds and promote healthy eating habits. Research shows that adults experience less stress when they share meals with others.
Benefits for Kids
For children, the advantages of eating together are even more significant:
- Mealtime chats help kids express themselves better, boosting their vocabulary and confidence.
- Eating with family allows children to discover new healthy foods.
- Kids who share meals with family are more likely to choose healthy options later on.
- These nutritious foods support their growth and development, keeping them healthy.
When dining with your kids, set a good example. Serve balanced meals, practice mindful eating, and encourage them to try new foods. They’ll pick up these habits from you!
Additional Tips
Here are some more ideas to celebrate Eat Better, Eat Together Month:
- Cook a meal together or host a potluck with family or friends.
- Revamp your pantry by swapping out salty and sugary snacks for fruits and veggies.
- Put away screens. Enjoy your meal and each other’s company without distractions.
- Let your kids help in the kitchen. It builds their skills and encourages them to try what they’ve helped prepare.
- Choose simple recipes. You don’t need complex meals to enjoy family time. Focus on healthy ingredients: proteins, fibers, fruits, and vegetables. Keep sugar, saturated fats, and salt low.
- Create a meal schedule. Plan when you’ll eat together each week. Make sure to have quick meal options ready for busy days.
- Remember, it’s about the company. Even if a meal doesn’t go as planned, the joy of being together is what matters.
Sharing a meal can happen at any time. If dinner doesn’t work, try breakfast or lunch instead. Embrace the benefits of spending time together and make it a regular part of your life.
Recent studies show that families who eat together regularly have children with better academic performance and lower risks of substance abuse (Source: National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse). So, whether it’s sharing a snack or a full meal, the time you invest with loved ones is invaluable.
Eating together is more than just nourishment; it’s about connection. It turns daily moments into meaningful experiences. So grab your favorite dish, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every bite!
