(NC) Kids eat together on the playground, and college students dine in shared dorm rooms, but as we get older and take on day jobs, are we still eating together? Apparently, not so much. A recent national survey commissioned by President’s Choice found that although Canadians spend significantly less time eating meals with friends and family compared to screen time, there is still a desire to spend more time at the table.
With technology becoming more accessible than ever and permeating our everyday lives, it’s important we take the time to put down our devices and re-connect with those around us. Research has shown on average, almost one in three of us are spending more than four hours of our free time engaging with screens each day.
The simple act of regularly sharing a meal with friends and family can contribute to a beneficial lifestyle, including healthier eating habits, early childhood development, and stronger interpersonal relationships.
In fact, for the first time since its inception, Canada’s most recent food guide released earlier this year encourages us to cook more often and eat meals with others in an effort to instill healthy eating habits.
“The act of eating together is very simple, yet the positive impacts are significant,” says Uwe Stueckmann, senior vice president at Loblaw Companies. “We know that moments and memories are created while sharing meals together, conversations are created with our children, healthier meals are eaten, and we leave the table happier and more connected with the ones we love.”
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