Family meals are so important that they are listed as the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Right since these user -friendly moments are excellent for health.
A study conducted by researchers from the University College of London provides new proof. The latter analyzed data of more than 150,000 people in 142 countries. The results are final: people who share their meals more often declare higher levels of life satisfaction.
A first
Concretely, those who always share their lunches and dinners are noted on average one more point on a well-being scale from 0 to 10, compared to those who eat alone.
One point may seem little, but the researchers emphasize that it is a significant difference. As a comparison, if the British gained a point on this scale, the United Kingdom would become the second happiest country in the world (it is currently Denmark, after Finland)!
-« This is the first time that data sharing data has been collected and analyzed on a global scale », Underlines Dr. Alberto Prati de l’UCL, co-author of the study. “” We already knew the importance of social ties for well-being, but we were surprised by the force of the link between the sharing of meals and the positive assessments and emotions. »
Latin America and the Caribbean, champions of meals taken together
The study also reveals geographic disparities. Latin America and the Caribbean are the sharing champions, with almost two thirds of lunches and dinners taken in common. Western Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand follow closely. Conversely, South Asia shares less than four meals per week.
In the United States, an analysis of trends since 2003 shows an increase in the number of people eating alone, especially among young people.
You will understand, beyond the simple fact of eating together, it is the social interaction that counts. Share a meal creates a moment of conviviality, sharing and connection with others. It is an opportunity to discuss, laugh, confide and strengthen links. So many essential elements for our well-being.
