One key benefit of eating meals together is that it promotes healthier eating habits. Research has shown that people who eat with others tend to consume more fruits and vegetables and are less likely to consume unhealthy foods than those who eat alone. In addition to promoting healthier eating habits, eating meals together can also help to strengthen relationships. Sharing meals can create a sense of community and fosters a feeling of togetherness that is difficult to replicate in other settings. Whether it’s sharing a meal with family members or enjoying a meal with friends, eating together can help to deepen our connections with others and improve our overall sense of wellbeing.

In fact, eating meals together has been shown to reduce stress levels. A survey by the American Heart Association found that 91% of parents notice their family is less stressed when they share family meals together. Eating together can create a sense of calm and comfort, and can help to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Sharing a meal with others facilitates conversation and can promote mental stimulation, which can help to keep our brains active and engaged. Perhaps most importantly, many of our fondest memories are formed around the dinner table. It’s a time set aside from the stresses of the workday and the tractor beam of TV screens to listen, learn and laugh with loved ones.