The quiet power of shared meals
Content.
Fun Fact. One of the longest-running studies in the world, the 85+ year Harvard Study of Adult Development, found that the quality of our relationships at age 50 is the strongest predictor of health at age 80.
Even more influential than cholesterol levels.
Even more than physical fitness.
When I first heard this, I was shocked. But the more I sat with it, the more it made sense.
Take the Mediterranean Diet, often considered the gold standard of eating patterns. At its core is conviviality: eating together, sharing food, lingering over conversation. It’s a powerful reminder that food is never just food.
When I sit with a client in clinic, we can explore dietary patterns, nutrients, habits, and health behaviours - but I never ignore the role that connection and relationships play in overall wellbeing.
So I’m curious, what is one small step you could take this week to nurture connection?
A shared meal.
A phone call.
A check-in text message.
If you’d like to explore this further, The Good Life beautifully unpacks decades of research on connection, health, and what truly sustains us.
Pictured. Family Dinner at my sister’s place on Sunday. Cup = full!
Recipe Recommendation. High Protein Greek Chicken Salad.
I love everything about this recipe. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, it’s quick, minimal clean-up, and it tastes so good.
As a funny aside, when Jordan asked what was for dinner and I said “chicken salad,” I was met with some hesitation. BUT once he realised which chicken salad I meant, he was immediately on board 😂
PS. serving this with warm pita bread is a step I never skip.
A fresh, satisfying, high-protein salad that still feels effortless.
Product Recommendation. Tongue scraper.
Ok, I’m going a little rogue here, but after repeatedly hearing just how closely oral health is linked to overall health, including our gut microbiome, I had to give this a mention.
Using a tongue scraper first thing in the morning (before eating or drinking) is a simple habit that takes under 20 seconds. Fair warning: the amount of bacteria that comes off can be a little shocking… but it’s oddly satisfying once you get into it.
Quote.
Sometimes when things are falling apart they are really falling together.
- Anonymous
The biggest support you can give is simply sharing it with someone who would love a balanced, gentle take on nutrition 💛
Got a question or topic you want covered next? Leave a comment or reply to this email. I’d love to hear from you! 💌
Till next time,
Jess, Your Balanced Dietitian xx
