We eat in our cars, at our desks, on the go, and in front of the TV. We eat takeout，packaged and prepared meals. Why? Because it fits our notenoughtimeintheday lifestyles. 36 Well, I’m certainly not the first one to think it—or say it—but we all need to slow down.
Consumer trends around the globe show that over the past three decades people are buying more prepared foods at the grocery and eating out more than ever before. It’s predicted that we’ll spend more at restaurants in the coming years. 37 However, we’re getting less healthy.
While debates can be seen in different media over the food industry’s contribution to our growing weight and our health problems，the bottom line is this： 38 We can choose to eat a fast-food lunch on the go. We can throw a frozen meal in the microwave and call it dinner. We can eat without thinking, in front of the tube, at our computers, and while driving a car.
39 Studies have shown meaningful links between family meals and kids’ mental and physical well-being(康乐). Eating wisely doesn’t take much time or money，but it does require you to make a conscious decision to do so. Wrapped in endless work, appointments and social activities, we often fail to enjoy a relaxing meal with our families.
While it can be a challenge to always put healthy eating first, just do your best. Remember that the food you eat has a more important effect on your health，weight and well-being than almost any other activity you do. 40 Every meal made at home-even just once or twice a week—is a step closer to a healthier body and a slower food lifestyle.
A. Lunch is the biggest calorie intake when it comes to eating out.
B. Treat it with the importance that it deserves, but start small.
C. Our food matches our lives.
D. Buy food locally and skip as many packaged items as you can.
E. What we eat, where we eat and how we eat are all under our control.
F. We’re consuming an increasing number of calories.
G. We can devote an hour of the day to enjoying a meal with our families.
