There’s nothing like enjoying a delicious meal with your friends and family all gathered around. Think about all the best family dinners you’ve had, whether they were holiday celebrations or simply intentional meals together, and how connected you felt to each person at the table.
There’s no doubt that a shared meal with the ones you love can be an enjoyable experience. However, did you know that eating with others is actually a health-boosting activity?
Is Eating With Friends and Family Good for Your Health?
The next time you enjoy a communal meal with people you care about, you can feel good knowing that you’re making a wonderful choice for your health in addition to having fun. Let’s look at a few reasons why this activity can support your mental and physical well-being.
It Helps Groups Feel More Connected
Everyone in your family has their own busy life, and it can be difficult to stay up to date with how everyone is doing. A family dinner is the perfect way to spend some intentional time chatting with one another and connecting on an emotional level. If certain members of your family are going through something that they need advice on, a meal together is the perfect place to discuss such things.
Additionally, happy hormones are released when you eat delicious food. Having that experience with others doing the same thing can make you feel closer to one another while forming happy memories together.
The same experience applies to meals shared with friends. As adults, keeping your friendships close can become challenging as people build their own lives and families. Sharing a meal with your friends helps you to strengthen your bond and fill each other in on any life events you may have missed. The closer you feel to your loved ones, the happier you will be in general!
It Encourages More Wholesome Food Choices
Did you know that families that eat meals together often make healthier food choices? When you’re busy and putting together a quick meal, you’re much more likely to choose easy and less healthy options like fast food or processed snacks.
When you intentionally put together a group meal for family and friends, you’re more likely to prepare dishes that include healthy ingredients like:
- Complex carbohydrates
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Grains
- Healthy fats
- Protein
These nutrients are essential to healthy living. A balanced diet is related to many health markers, including more energy throughout the day, better sleep, weight management, disease prevention, and healthy aging. Additionally, a more varied diet is bound to be more flavorful and delicious!
Create an Unforgettable Memory With Crave Culinaire Catering
Is eating with friends and family good for your health? Of course! However, keep in mind that your shared meal doesn’t need to be home-cooked in order to be special.
Want to take the pressure off the family chefs and simply enjoy some incredible food for your next group dinner or holiday? Contact us at Crave Culinaire for delicious and inspired catering that will make your next family dinner one for the books.
