There are so many benefits for families that eat dinner together. When I was young, my parents did not let me watch TV while we had dinner, and we had dinner together a lot. I grew up before cell phones and internet came on the scene, but I wasn’t even allowed to answer the land-line phone. It was torture or so I thought then, but now I know, I've realized my parents were right.

In a recent study at University of Minnesota (USA), researchers surveyed more than 800 adolescents, first when they were 13 and then again around 17. Here’s what they found for those who frequently ate dinner with their families: (1) Scheduling family meals together gave everyone a chance to connect and to feel closer as a family (2) They ate more healthy (3) They got better grades (4) They used fewer drugs like alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana. (5) Children were more disciplined (6) Lesser addiction to TV, Internet and Online Gaming.

If there is a distraction at the dinner table, then you aren’t really “Together.” Physically yes, but emotionally and mentally ‘No!’. Research shows that teenagers have more problems away from home if they are allowed to eat in their rooms (with a TV or internet game) or watching TV while eating.

Food is a necessity. The dinner table can be one of the best places to bring your family together. Eating a nice home cooked meal with your whole family is a wonderful experience, and can bring great discussion, or humor to everyone attending. People love to eat, people love to enjoy their dinners more with their family and loved ones as this allows them to have fun conversations, ruthless arguments, there is so much excitement in talking to all your brothers, sisters, parents; in fact, entire family at once.

There is power in food to bring people together. There is power in food, whether you are preparing it or eating it. Take advantage of your family dinners, who knows how much longer you'll have it with them. Whether you sit and enjoy the presence, or strike a conversation with your family members, a family dinner is a great way to gather the family every day!