The Importance of Family Meals

[#1]

When’s the last time your family ate dinner together? 

If you’re like many families, sitting down to a meal together is easier said than done. But making time for regular family meals is important, offering benefits that go beyond family bonding. Research shows:

• Children who regularly eat family dinners tend to have a lower BMI (body mass index), less body fat and smaller waistlines than children who don’t dine with their family.

• Children who regularly eat meals at home tend to eat more fruits and vegetables, get more nutrients like calcium, fiber and iron and vitamins C and E in their diets, consume less fat and eat fewer snack foods.
• Eating together has positive effects on teen eating habits. Teens that eat family meals consume more fruit and vegetables and drink fewer soft drinks. Even better, those healthy habits tend to extend into young adulthood.

To help get your clan on the family meal plan, pick a regular time to eat together, even if it’s only one night a week to start. Or make breakfast or an evening snack your family meal, if dinnertime is too hectic. Keep menus simple, and be sure to include vegetables and fruits. Finally, ask the family to pitch in–even little ones can do things like set the table or wash produce. 

How do you make time for family meals?

[#2]

Totally agree with your points about family meal time. I've seen for myself how differently (and better) everyone in the family eats when we're all together, compared to when everybody scrounges for themselves.

Lots of good "food" for thought here. I'm glad I found your blog.

[#3]

Hello Kate,

It really is important to make time for regular family meals. Thank you for your comment!

Take care,

Kerry

[#4]

I was told at the store that my phone number did not work and that I did not sign up for this Safeway special and would not receive the dozen eggs that I was promised.  

Can you confirm that I have joined up and what do I need to do to receive the dozen eggs?

Chad States

[#5]

Hello Chad,

I'm sorry to hear that you are having issues collecting your offers in the just for U program. Can you please give our Call Center a call at 1-877-SAFEWAY (1-877-723-3929)? They can confirm if your registration went through or not. Let me know if you have any other questions.

~Kerry