What role does food play in my social life?

Take a moment to think of one occasion, gathering, celebration or holiday that does not involve food in some fundamental way. Having trouble? I'm not surprised. We live in a food-centric society, a culture so obsessed with eating that we incorporate this behavior in almost every social activity imaginable. If you plan to associate with other people in practically any fashion, there will be a meal, drink or refreshment involved.

But why? For one, food is a form of social currency. We offer others food to show them that we care. Food is a versatile gift that everyone can accept, understand and appreciate. When people are gathering, food welcomes and puts people at ease. As well, food is a great distraction and adds a bit of entertainment to any situation. Food at a gathering creates a positive atmosphere and ensures a group of happy campers. When you ask my 84-year-old grandmother how her friend's party went, she bases her response on the food served ("It was wonderful -- she had a beautiful nova platter!").

While food will likely always remain on the invitee list, it behooves us -- given the nation's obesity epidemic -- to think about ways that we can scale down the importance of food in our social world.