Obesity is second only to smoking as the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States. Ironically, in the midst of this epidemic, American families are chronically under-nourished. It has been suggested that one cause of today's obesity crisis is the decline of the family meal. Under ever-increasing time and financial pressures, parents may be spending less time with their children, who may in turn feel isolated and depressed, and use food to make up for the vital nurturing connection that occurs when families eat together.
Learning Questions
1. List 3 common diseases caused by obesity. Which is the biggest threat to children?
2. Under what circumstance do children eat most healthily? Why?
3. Why has family meal time become less important in American culture?
4. Explain the link between depression, isolated family members, and overeating.
5. What is Teresa’s biggest challenge in cooking home-made family dinners?
6. What do you like best about family meal time?
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