Turn Off The Tube

by: AndreaDow
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Word Count: 253

Tuesday, September 11th

It is hard to believe that this is the 6th anniversary of 9-11. In reflecting the events of 9-11, I always want to be close to family and spend time with loved ones. As a kid, I grew up with traditional family dinners and always try planning those on nights like tonight. I recently read an interesting article on maximizing together time at the dinner table, especially if you have little ones.

Eating dinners together as a family are crucial for building healthy eating habits, improving kid's grades in school, and building healthy relationships. All of the benefits of dining together can be undone if the television is on in the background according to IDEA Fitness Journal. Researchers completed a cross-sectional study to look at the eating behaviors of kids either eating dinner together as a family or eating together while the TV is on during meals. The study included 1,300 families with preschool aged children. Study results appeared in the April issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The quality of food offered during mealtime with the television on definitely decreased. Less fruits and vegetables and healthy foods were offered when the TV was on compared to when the TV was off.

Remember, dietary habits are formed young. The take home message here is to turn off the tube, get healthy foods on the table and spend time with your loved ones every day possible!

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