FOOD FOR THOUGHT— THE BENEFITS OF EATING AS A FAMILY
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Educational Benefits Mealtime
In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to overlook the simple yet profound act of sharing a meal with family or friends. However, research suggests that eating together at least three times a week can significantly benefit overall health, particularly for children. Let's delve into why this age-old tradition is more important than ever. Healthier Eating Habits One of the most immediate benefits of family meals is you generally eat better. Families sitting down to eat together are more likely to consume a balanced homemade meal rich in essential nutrients like calcium and fiber. This is especially beneficial for children in their formative years who need these nutrients for growth and development. Weight Management Eating together also helps in controlling weight more effectively. Home-prepared
meals usually contain healthier ingredients and allow for better portion control. Mealtime structure also supports better eating habits, which can be a crucial factor in weight management for both adults and children. Positive Effects on Child Development Research suggests that eating dinner together positively affects child development. Children interact with adults and siblings, and conversations help them learn social skills, table manners, family values, and culture. Emotional Well-Being Family meals are not just about the food but also about spending quality time together. Enjoying a meal with loved ones allows family bonding and may even improve mental health. It contributes to fewer emotional problems and helps children feel loved, safe, and secure.
conversations can be educational. Parents can discuss various topics, helping children expand their knowledge, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. This intellectual stimulation can be particularly beneficial for school- aged children.
Sharing meals with family or friends is not just a social custom but a healthful practice with numerous benefits. The advantages
are numerous, especially for children. So, make it a point to gather around the table for a meal at least three times a week. Your body, mind, and soul will thank you.
TECH TALK Eric G. Answers Some FAQs!
Q: What is the typical lifespan of my HVAC system, and how can I extend it? A: The average HVAC unit was built to last 15–20 years, but like everything else, the better it's maintained, the longer it will last. If it’s neglected, it won't last. Regular maintenance and changing the filters are critical. Q: Are there any warning signs that my system may be approaching the end of its life? A: That depends on the type of system you have, but the tech who comes out to do your annual system maintenance can let you know about the condition of your specific equipment.
We're grateful to have such an amazing and knowledgeable group of technicians on our team! In an effort to share their knowledge with you, Eric G. allowed us to pick his brain for this month's edition of Tech Talk and answered four commonly asked HVAC questions! Q: How can I optimize my thermostat settings for efficiency? A: At my house, I have a programmable thermostat set on a schedule. When I'm not home, or at night, I lower it to 63°F, and I raise it to 68°F when I'm home during the day. That way, I optimize efficiency by using less energy when no one's home, but it's not turned down so far that the system has to work too hard to come up to temperature.
Meet Eric G.! Eric has been in HVAC for 19 years, but he grew up swinging a hammer with his dad, who was a master carpenter. Tired of lugging wood, Eric returned to school to learn HVAC and has been at it ever since. Before coming to Aire Serv, he was doing commercial work but says he enjoys interacting with customers in the home and being part of the family atmosphere here at Aire Serv. Fun fact: Eric has a degree in mathematics but says, "A desk is not for me!" He likes to stay busy on and off the job and enjoys hiking, four-wheeling, and keeping up with his three kids, three dogs, and a grandson.
You can swap out any thermostat with a programmable thermostat, or even a Wi-Fi model, so you can control it while you're away. Q: How can I improve indoor air quality with my HVAC system? A: Dry air is always a problem in the winter, so a humidifier is beneficial. A good filter is always a plus — or a media filter, depending on your needs and whether you have allergies or pets. The more contaminants in the air, the more you should do to purify the air.
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