Numerous cross-sectional studies and some longitudinal studies have identified the
positive attributes and protective effects of the traditional family meal. Children
and adolescents who frequently eat meals with their families are more likely to eat
fruits and vegetables;
1
less likely to consume fried food, soda, or sweets;
2
less likely to have disordered eating patterns;
3
and less likely to be overweight.
4
,
5
However, very few published reports evaluate programs designed to increase the frequency
or quality of family meals.
6
Therefore, the purpose of this program was to promote better family meals at home
for girls attending a summer program by improving the girls' food preparation skills
and their abilities to be family change agents for more healthful family mealtimes.To read this article in full you will need to make a payment
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References
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- Gimme 5 fruit, juice, and vegetables for fun and health: outcome evaluation.Health Educ Behav. 2000; 27: 96
- Social desirability bias in self-reported dietary, physical activity and weight concerns measures in 8- to 10-year-old African-American girls: results from the Girls Health Enrichment Multi-site Studies (GEMS).Prev Med. 2004; 38: S78-S87
- Reliability and validity of the family eating and activity habits questionnaire.Eur J Clin Nutr. 1998; 52: 771-777
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© 2009 Society for Nutrition Education. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
