Most people don’t think about how the holidays will help their health goals. Throughout the year’s frenzy of choosing carbs, proteins and fats, many get preoccupied with the pursuit for healthier and fit bodies. While this isn’t a bad practice, it often underscores some other important aspects of what being healthy really means.
With the cold months approaching many will be forced inside to the pleasure (or possibly pain) of meals with families and friends. During this time, some will cast aside all notions of calories and portion control. Thankfully though, this sometimes reminds people of the value in this rare and outdated habit of eating…together. The fact is, there was a time when meals were always centered around the home table where families and friends would reinforce healthy lifestyles. Now that the times and lifestyles have changed, the majority of our food is now eaten alone, on the go, in the car or at restaurants. Even when the food choices are nutritious, we miss out on the many benefits of a home cooked meal.
It’s been shown that those who engage in more meals together often choose healthier options compared to when eating out or eating alone. Dining around close friends and loved ones tends to strengthen good habits and reinforce healthy behaviors. This is one of the reasons why those who engage in family dinners often have less rates of emotional and binge type eating.
Another clear benefit is the relaxation component of dining together. The calming effect of mindful eating and sharing thoughts is the perfect defense against life’s stresses such as work. When in groups, people eat slower and pay more attention to the colors, flavors and aromas of what they’re eating. Thus, food is more pleasurable and people tend to eat less overall because they’re not in a rush to finish the meal. Meals with others are also the best place to try new foods and expand the horizons of your palette. More variety often means more healthy foods that can be utilized and enjoyed in the diet.
All this being said, it’s still not appropriate to gorge yourself with gluttonous delight during these meals that you’re sharing. Overeating is another problem altogether and no amount of social activity can protect against unhealthy food choices. Also, the best way to kill the good effects of eating together, are to do it while sitting in front of the television. Though this may seem hard, try having technology free dinners that emphasize discussion and instead focus on the time together while eating as a family or group – a practice that should be done more often than the holidays.
This message isn’t just for families or married couples. Young, unmarried people can benefit in so many ways by implementing weekly potlucks or by planning regular meals with relatives. So even though the holidays can be stressful and commonly unhealthy for many, it’s a great time to remember the joys of a practice that is seldom done today. When cooped up inside this season, implement balance in your indulgence of good food and good company and above all else embrace all aspects of a healthy, flourishing lifestyle.
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