Did you know research shows that families that eat together tend to have healthier eating habits? 

Whether it’s a dinner party, lunch meeting, or celebration with friends, food can serve as a way to come together. Research shows that families that eat together tend to have healthier eating habits. Cooking together or eating together can also strengthen relationships. Of course, eating some meals alone is fine, just as long as you break bread with others sometimes. 

Family meals improve fruit and vegetable consumption

Studies show a positive relationship between family meal frequency and fruit and vegetable intake when examined separately, but also when fruit and vegetable intake were combined. 

Family meals improve family functioning

Studies demonstrate a positive relationship between family meal frequency and measures of family functioning. Family functioning is defined as family connectedness, communication, expressiveness, and problem-solving. 

More family meals is associated with better overall mental health

Regular family meals are also associated with lower rates of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, tobacco use, early teenage pregnancy, higher rates of resilience and higher self-esteem.