We often think of meals as just a way to refuel our bodies—but eating with others does more than satisfy hunger. Research shows that community eating, or regularly sharing meals with others, can have powerful benefits for the brain. Whether it’s a family dinner, lunch with coworkers, or a gathering with friends, these shared experiences can improve how we think, feel, and nourish the body.
Less Stress and Sharper Minds
One major benefit of eating together is how it can reduce stress. Food intake is associated with release of oxytocin – a hormone often referred to as the ‘love hormone’ that helps us feel connected and safe.
A review article published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2021 led by a team from Japan’s Jichi Medical University in the Division of Brain and Neurophysiology summarizes the role of oxytocin in our stress response. The authors found that oxytocin can reduce stress levels by lowering cortisol levels – a compound known as the ‘stress hormone’.
Oxytocin has also been shown to reduce fear and anxiety by reducing the activity of an area of the brain called the amygdala. The amygdala is a small structure located deep in the brain that is responsible for emotional processing. An overactive amygdala can be associated with anxiety disorders, PTSD, and heightened stress responses. Since high stress over time can harm memory and concentration, lowering stress during meals can help support healthy brain aging and mental health.
Table Talk is a Brain Workout
One of the most powerful effects of eating together is how it supports our ability to communicate and remember. When we sit down to a meal with others, we’re not just eating—we’re engaging in meaningful conversation. These interactions give the brain a workout, especially for children and older adults to develop and maintain communication skills.
For children, regular family meals have been shown to boost vocabulary, improve reading skills, and support academic success. One study found that children who had frequent family dinners scored higher in reading, writing, and test performance—even when researchers controlled for other factors like income and parental education (Fiese & Schwartz, 2008). Mealtime talk also helps children learn storytelling, emotional awareness, and turn-taking in conversations—skills that are critical for both learning and healthy social development (Snow & Beals, 2006).
For older adults, eating with others helps maintain memory and thinking abilities. Research shows that seniors who engage in regular social meals experience slower cognitive decline and have a lower risk of developing memory loss or dementia (Thomas et al., 2015). This benefit likely comes from a combination of mental stimulation, emotional connection, and the motivation to eat well when meals are shared.
Better Nutrition is Better Brain Health
Nutrition also plays a role. People who eat with others tend to eat healthier meals, including more fruits, vegetables, and whole foods. These nutrients fuel the brain and support memory, attention, and overall mental performance. Eating a balanced meal together may be more enjoyable—and better for you—than eating a rushed meal alone.
In short, eating together is more than a tradition—it’s a powerful habit for brain health. It helps us connect emotionally, think more clearly, and stay mentally engaged. And the best part? It doesn’t require special training or expensive equipment. Just sitting down with others to share a meal can make a meaningful difference. As life gets busier, it’s easy to let shared meals slip away. But carving out time to eat with family, friends, or coworkers—even just a few times a week—can boost your brain in ways you might not expect.
