Teenagers and young adults having dinner together with their families are more likely to have healthier eating habits than those who eat alone, a new study has revealed.
The researchers found that when families sit down together, adolescents and young adults eat more fruits and veggies and consume fewer fast-food.
According to lead researcher Kathryn Walton, post-doctoral researcher at Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto, Canada:
It’s a time when families can slow down from their busy days to talk, spend time together and problem-solve. It’s also a time that parents can model healthful eating behaviours.
The study, published in the journal JAMA Network Open, found that preparing and enjoying a meal together can also help families bond and the meal does not have to be a big drawn-out affair.
Jess Haines, Professor from the University of Guelph in Canada, said:
Even if it’s something you pull out of the freezer, add a bagged salad on the side and you’ll have a decent nutritional meal.
Walton said many teenagers and young adults living at home are busy with evening extracurricular activities or part-time jobs, making it hard to find time for dinner with family members.
But finding that time once a day - even if it's breakfast together - can be just as effective, the researcher said.
For the study, the team looked at more than 2,700 participants, 14 to 24 years of age.