Several studies have shown that family meals promote a well-balanced and healthier diet and weight status. Metabolic syndrome is related to eating behavior. This study investigated the association between eating family meals and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

This cross-sectional study included 4,529 subjects who participated in the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey IV and V (2007–2012). A self-reported questionnaire was used to assess dietary status. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to the guidelines of the modified version of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III. We compared the overall quality of dietary intake in family meal.

Nutritional adequacy ratios for energy, protein, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin C, niacin, and potassium, and the mean adequacy ratio were significantly higher in the family meal group (P<0.05). The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was lower in the family meal group (P<0.05). However, we observed no significant association between eating family meals and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome.

This study demonstrated that eating family meals appeared to be associated with nutrient adequacy. However, we observed no significant differences in prevalence of metabolic syndrome between the 2 groups.