Enjoying healthy foods with family, friends, neighbours or co-workers is a great way to connect and add enjoyment to your life. It can provide many benefits and contribute to a healthy lifestyle.

By eating with others you can:

• enjoy quality time together
• share food traditions across generations and cultures
• explore new healthy foods that you might not normally try

Food is often a main part of celebrations and special events. However, eating with others doesn’t have to be saved for special events.

How to eat with others more often:

Making time to enjoy meals with others doesn’t just happen. With busy schedules at work, school and home, making time to enjoy your meals with others can often get pushed aside.

The key to making it happen often starts with a plan. You could:

• plan a breakfast date with friends
• participate in community celebrations and feasts
• start a regular community meal with your neighbours
• have lunch with a co-worker at work or friend at school
• ask your local community centre about groups you could join
• plan a weekly dinner with extended family members or friends
• eat dinner with:
  • roommates
  • a neighbour
  • family members
• start a dinner party among your friends where everyone takes a turn hosting

When you eat with others, it’s important to remember to:

• take your time. Don’t feel the need to rush. Enjoy your food and the social aspect of being together.
• put away distractions like the TV or electronics. This can help you be mindful of your food choices.
• use it as a chance to connect. Talk to those around you and share what is going on in everyone’s life.

Source: Health Canada