Take Time to Eat Well Together

A new campaign is encouraging families to make a positive difference to their health by eating together at mealtimes.

Research shows that eating well together as a family encourages good eating habits, aids child development and improves relationships.

Busy lifestyles mean it isn’t always possible for families to get around the dinner table at the same time, but making time for family meals even a couple of evenings a week or at weekends can make a difference.

Belinda Morgan, NHS Fife Head of Health Improvement, said: “We know that eating well together as a family brings a number of benefits for both children and adults.

“For example, children who eat with their families are less likely to be overweight and families who eat together are more likely to eat balanced meals with more fruit and vegetables.

“Children are influenced by the behaviour of their parents and eating patterns developed in childhood often extend into adulthood. By eating well, you not only encourage your children to develop positive eating habits but make a positive difference to your own health.”

And it’s not just health that can benefit – eating well together can also aid a child’s development, with children more likely to have an increased vocabulary and to do better at school. In addition, families are likely to benefit from closer and improved relationships.

The campaign, part of the Take Time series, will also focus on the importance of good nutrition from birth, with advice on both breastfeeding and weaning.

Carrie Lindsay, Head of Education and Children’s Services at Fife Council, said: “As well as recognising the importance of eating together, this campaign aims to provide helpful advice for feeding babies, toddlers and the wider family.

“A variety of local support is available to assist parents with breastfeeding and weaning, and we hope this campaign will also inspire families to eat more home-cooked meals.

“It doesn’t have to be costly, difficult or time-consuming to eat well and to make a meal that the whole family will enjoy.”