Facts & Stats

This series of brief concepts can be incorporated into existing and/or newly created publicity materials. Each "Fact" focuses on a particular topic and offers a narrative supported by peer-reviewed studies. 

Family Meals Fuel Stronger Families

Hundreds of peer reviewed studies document the physical, nutritional, and mental health benefits of family meals. There is also considerable research supporting the positive impact of family meals on the interpersonal relationships within families.

Studies show that family meals improve family functioning. This is defined as family connectedness, communication, expressiveness, and problem-solving.¹

Moreover, there is evidence that family meals help individuals deepen their relationships with family and friends, which may help enhance and even extend one’s life.² In fact, a large body of scientific studies indicate being in close relationships and feeling socially connected decreases risk for death and disease. Translation: family meals deepen and intensify family connections and make for healthier, more enduring families.

In short, family meals fuel stronger families.

Family Meals Promote Healthy Eating and Healthy Bodies

Research shows that when families gather around the table to share a meal, everyone eats healthier. In fact, dietary patterns for both children and parents are markedly improved simply by enjoying meals together. Fruit and vegetable consumption increases¹, and the risk of obesity decreases.²

There are other ways to bolster the impact of family meals. The more frequently families eat together, for example, the better overall nutritional health³. Studies indicate that adding a few extra minutes around the table further improves children’s diet quality.⁴

Whether enjoying family meals once a week or five days a week, briefly or for an extended period, count on family meals to improve the nutritional health for all participants.

Protein Fuels Muscle Development; Family Meals Fuel Prosocial Behaviors

Just as eating right helps improve physical health, family meals positively impact mental health, shaping social behaviors among youth.

Eating together as a family is associated with lower levels of aggression, hostile behavior, and delinquency¹ among adolescents. Those who frequently eat meals with their family are less likely to engage in risky behaviors such as smoking and drug use when compared to peers who never or rarely eat meals with their families.²

Gather the family around the table to fuel both the muscles and the mind!