Enjoy Every Bite!
I think Europeans have mastered the art of eating. They make their meals a time of connecting with family and friends.
While Americans boast about eating in 6 minutes; people in other countries dine for hours at a time. They enjoy each morsel of food allowing the digestive system to work slowly and effectively.
In addition to the digestive benefits, eating slowly can be equally as effective at weight management. I’ve been to many European countries and rarely ever noticed obesity as a chronic problem.
When we are able to slow down and pace ourselves, the brain has time to respond to the body’s physiological needs.
If we eat quickly, often times we eat far more than what is needed because the “full stomach” signal did not have time to make it to the brain.
This Thanksgiving, try eating like a European. You have probably spent hours and hours preparing the meal so why not spend quality time enjoying it? Start a new tradition and suggest everyone stay seated for at least 45 minutes. Engage others in conversation between bites to make each one last.
Try using “table talk” cards that allow everyone to answer questions to thought provoking topics. It will break the ice and give you the opportunity to learn more about the people in your life.
Consider incorporating this new way of eating into every family meal. Try eating as a family at least three nights a week. If you have children, this may be the only time in your busy week to connect with them.
Shop and plan your menu ahead of time so it is not overwhelming. Keep it simple and healthy and make meals that everyone likes. If you have older children, give them a day to choose the meal and have them assist you in preparing it.
If you don’t have time to get connected with your family members and are tired of the feeling that comes after dinner time frenzy, then slow down! Make each meal special and make it last. This small change at dinner time may be just what your family needs.
Send questions and comments to: suzanne_mcginnis@bellsouth.net