THE ESSENTIAL
- Chronic and ongoing stress has many negative health effects.
- It increases, among other things, the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Sharing meals with others, with family or colleagues, might be a solution to relieve daily stress.
Could the solution to relieving stress be as simple as getting together for a family meal? The American Heart Association survey reveals that 91% of parents notice that their family is less stressed when they share meals together.
According to a survey of 1,000 American adults, and while they eat alone regarding half the time, 84% would like to be able to share a meal more often with their loved ones.
Two out of three adults say they are stressed
However, they do need to reduce their stress: two out of three (65%) say they are at least quite stressed and 27% are very or extremely stressed. Seven out of ten working people say they would feel less stressed if they had more time to take a break and share a meal with their colleagues.
“Sharing meals with others is a great way to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve social connections, especially for children”says Erin Michos, member of the American Heart Association, in the communiqué posted regarding the poll. A habit to take according to him because “Chronic and constant stress can also increase your lifetime risk of heart disease and stroke, so it’s important that people find ways to reduce and manage stress as much as possible, as soon as possible.”
Sharing a meal with others, a healthy habit
The survey also reveals that most respondents think sharing a meal with others has many other benefits: two out of three say eating with others reminds them of the importance of connecting with friends, family, colleagues and neighbours. More than half (54%) say sharing a meal reminds them to slow down a bit and take a break. On the nutrition side, nearly six in ten people (59%) add that they make healthier food choices when they eat together. However, many find it difficult to align their schedule with loved ones.
“We know it’s not always as easy as it seems to bring people together at mealtimes. Like other healthy habits, give yourself permission to start with small goals”underlines Erin Michos. “Make it a goal to bring your friends, family, or co-workers together for one more meal together each week. If you can’t get together in person, think regarding how you can share a meal together over the phone or by computer”he advises.
