One of the most powerful things you can do for your family’s health, connection and overall well-being is simply eat a meal together. Research consistently shows that regular family meals are linked to healthier eating habits, better grades, improved self-esteem and even lower rates of depression and risky behaviors in kids and teens.  

To make the most of those moments around the table and add to the benefits, start by building meals featuring key nutrients that give the body what it needs to thrive. Try these powerful pairings to incorporate ingredients that support health at mealtimes. 

Certified Angus Beef®
Known for its superior marbling, tenderness and flavor, Certified Angus Beef® makes a satisfying centerpiece, whether grilled, roasted, stir-fried or stewed. Pairing with plenty of fresh produce and whole grains means hearty meals that nourish the whole family. Feature in tacos, stews or even on top of pizza.

Enjoying more lean beef can support:
 Protein needs 
•    Immune health – Beef offers zinc, an important mineral for immune system function
•    Metabolism – B vitamins in beef help convert the food we eat into energy
•    Iron intake – Beef is a rich source of heme iron, which is easily absorbed by the body

Avocados From Mexico 
Avocados are a delicious way to boost the nutrition profile of your favorite meal.  Nutrient dense Avocados from Mexico offer more than 20 vitamins and minerals, are a good source of fiber, and provide healthy fats, that support heart health. 

Enjoying more avocados can support: 
•    Nutrient absorption – Their healthy fats help your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
•    Digestive health - The 3g of dietary fiber in one-third of a medium avocado (50 gram serving) helps you feel fuller longer. It also aids your digestive system in running smoothly. 
•    Heart Health - The American Heart Association recommends replacing saturated fat in the diet with good fats like unsaturated fat. Avocados are a low saturated fat food and provide 6 grams of unsaturated fat per serving. 

California Grapes
Juicy, naturally sweet, and available in red, green, and black varieties, California grapes add a burst of nutrition to your meals. Eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables ensures a full spectrum of health supporting nutrients, and grapes of all colors contain antioxidants that help support the immune system. Pairing California grapes with other health supporting ingredients like greens, whole grains and lean proteins have a synergistic effect to support overall health.  
Enjoying more grapes can support:
•    Brain health – Polyphenols in grapes may help support cognitive function
•    Heart health – Grapes are rich in polyphenols, which may help support healthy blood pressure and circulation.
•    Antioxidant protection – Natural plant compounds in grapes help protect cells from oxidative stress

Aim to make the most of family mealtime with powerful pairings featuring key nutrients. For more recipe inspiration to enjoy this Family Meals Month, you can pick up our free Family Meals recipe booklet in Food City stores or visit our Meals & Recipe center.