Food tastes better when there is someone sitting across the table.  A good part of the pleasure of eating comes from enjoying anothers company during a meal.  Unfortunately, people living alone often neglect to eat nutritious meals because there is less incentive to cook.  Those who eat alone often select diets that are below par in recommended nutrients.  They may "graze" though the day or indulge at one meal and skip others because they have no one to eat with.

    To make the most of eating alone, try the following ideas:

• The eyes have it:  add pizzazz to dining by dressing up the table with a place mat, flowers, candles and other special touches to remind you that eating can be a pleasant, leisurely experience.
• Eat colorful meals.  A plate containing several colors looks more appetizing.  Sliced red tomatoes, green peas and orange carrot sticks with browned meat makes a more appealing meal than white or brown foods only.
• Include a variety of textures in your meals.
• Eat crispy or shredded low sugar cereals in yogurt for breakfast.
• Include different textures within the same meal --soft, chewy, crisp and firm.  Adapt the textures to chewing  ability.  Even those who need a softer diet can try soft vegetables or fruits.
• Enjoy companionship:  Those who live alone can invite a friend over for dinner, eat out once a week with friends, plan lunches with others or visit a senior center at lunchtime.
• Prepare a new recipe each week and invite friends over for a tasting party or potluck meal.
• Convenience counts:  buy prepackaged mixed salad greens and vegetables, especially green peppers, spinach, broccoli, carrots and tomatoes.  Salads made with these are great sources of vitamins A and C.  Add the vegetables to stir fry meals.  Combine a prepackaged frozen entree with fresh or frozen vegetables and fresh fruits.  MAKE SURE TO CHECK THE FOOD LABELS FOR SODIUM AND FAT CONTENT!
• When you cook, make a large batch of food and freeze left overs in small portions for later.
• BREAKFAST COUNTS!  Even when you are in a hurry or don't feel hungry, take time for breakfast.  Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on whole wheat toast and add sliced fruit.  Eat near a window and watch the sunrise or birds in the trees.  Use your best dishes and feel special.