The health benefits of sharing a meal

A new report released by The Families Commission looking at the role of family meals in the health and wellbeing of young people is something parents should take note of says leading youth organisation, Youthline.

 

Data collected from over 9000 secondary school students from around New Zealand has found that those who eat with their families frequently are less likely to engage in damaging behavior like smoking, binge drinking, marijuana and unsafe sex.

 

Of those surveyed, one third reported sharing meals with their families seven or more times a week.

 

Youthline National Spokesperson, Stephen Bell says we are pleasantly surprised at this number and it is a really positive thing.

 

“I find that number surprising given that nowadays it often takes the income of two people to keep the family afloat, making it more difficult for parents to have dinner with their children, but I think it’s great if people are managing to do this.

 

"The protective factors that families can provide to young people are really paramount to their health and wellbeing,” he adds.

 

The study also showed that those young people who frequently ate meals together were less likely to report suicidal thoughts or be depressed.

 

To download a copy of the study visit http://www.nzfamilies.org.nz/

 

For further comment from Youthline please contact:

Stephen Bell:

027 2718151