Huron County, ON – March is Nutrition Month, and this year the Huron County Health Unit encourages you to tap into the potential of food to bring people together.
“When we share a meal with friends and family, we connect and share traditions with others,” says Public Health Dietitian Liz Higgins. “Research also shows that sharing meals benefits all age groups.”
Children who eat with their family have more nutritious diets, while teenagers who share meals get better grades and eat a more balanced diet.
Adults who share meals tend to eat more vegetables and fruits, and also drink less pop. Also, older adults who eat as part of a group have better diets and lower rates of malnutrition.
In a recent Ipsos poll, 30 per cent of Canadians said it’s challenging to find time to eat meals with friends and family. But every meal shared together counts! If you want to increase the number of meals you share, try these ideas:
- If your evenings are hectic, share breakfast meals with family or invite friends over for a weekend brunch.
- Invite a friend over to try out a new recipe or share an old favourite.
- Have a monthly potluck with friends. Challenge yourselves to try healthy recipes that are simple and easy to prepare.
- Attend a local church supper or community breakfast. Older adults can also consider community meals held by One Care Diners. Visit www.onecaresupport.ca or call 1.877.502.8277 to learn more.
Nutrition Month is celebrated every March by the Dietitians of Canada and their partners. Learn more about the potential of food at www.nutritionmonth2018.ca.
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