In a world of convenience, it’s become the norm to grab meals solo whenever hunger strikes. While this might cure a craving, it is just one more way of becoming isolated from the world around you. Taking the time to make dinner plans with your friends at least once or twice a week will stave off loneliness and provide these other benefits.

Why Dine Out With Friends?

1. It Increases Happiness

Sitting down to eat with other people helps you to maintain social connections. These ties have been shown to have positive effects on physical, mental, and emotional health. When people feel more connected to friends and family, they exhibit lower levels of anxiety and depression and higher levels of self-esteem and empathy for others.

2. It Helps to Make Healthier Food Choices

When you make dinner plans with your friends, you’re less likely to choose fast food restaurants. Ordering with others will also help you to make a conscious effort to select more nutritious dishes—especially if you all tend to follow similar dietary requirements. Good conversation will also aid in preventing overeating.

3. It Improves Digestion

When you eat alone, you probably don’t sit upright in a chair very often. Eating dinner with your friends forces you to sit properly at a table. This posture speeds up the rate of digestion, but not so much that you feel hungry soon after and overeat—which has been shown to happen when standing and eating. Talking and listening to those in your group will also slow down how quickly you consume food and speed up the feelings of fullness.

When deciding where to eat with your friends this week, turn to Barefoot Island Grill in Orange Beach, AL. This seafood restaurant has an extensive lunch and dinner menu with items made from fresh, quality ingredients. Stop by to enjoy favorites like their shrimp and grits or fish and chips and soak up the comfortable lounge and bar atmosphere. Call them today at (251) 256-0055 with any questions, and visit their website to view their full menu.