Extension Communications
3614 Administrative Services Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3614
(515) 294-9915
11/7/00
Contacts:
Elisabeth Schafer, Food Science and Human Nutrition, (515)
294-1359, eschafer@iastate.edu
Diane Nelson, Extension Communications, (515) 294-3178,
dinelson@iastate.edu
Try Creative Ideas for Family Meal Time
AMES, Iowa--Research shows that families who eat together enjoy a healthier relationship as well as more nutritious foods. But nearly half of the Iowans in a recent survey said they did not eat together as often as they would like.
Some of the roadblocks they face include busy schedules, time conflicts, television competition, lack of commitment and a weakening family structure.
"It definitely takes effort to get everyone to the table at the same time," said Elisabeth Schafer, Iowa State University Extension nutrition specialist. "But trying to do so at least a couple times a week does benefit the family both in better relationships and in a healthier diet."
Several suggestions for getting families back to the table are included in a new ISU Extension publication, "Say 'Yes' to Family Meals," PM 1842.
"Finding time for family meals can be an extremely challenging task," said Schafer, "but it's worth it. Even if you can't get everyone in the family together every time, try to get as many family members as possible around the table for a meal. You'll see big benefits."
Single copies of "Say 'Yes' to Family Meals," PM 1842, are available free from ISU Extension county offices and the ISU Extension publication Web site http://www.extension.iastate.edu/Pages/pubs/.
eh
ml: imajor
Extension programs are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.