Everyone has turned to comfort food at some point in their lives. Whether it's devouring a bag of Oreos or indulging in a tub of ice cream, these foods seem to offer solace during tough times. But what is it about comfort foods that makes them so effective at soothing our sorrows?
Imagine this: you've just gone through a breakup. Your eyes are red from crying, and you find yourself listening to melancholic songs on repeat. As you wander into the kitchen, you're drawn to the freezer, where you find a tub of slightly freezer-burnt Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream. With each creamy bite, you momentarily feel that everything will be okay.
This scenario is a classic example of turning to comfort food. The term "comfort food" was officially recognized by Merriam-Webster in 1972, but the concept has been around for much longer. Recent research has provided fascinating insights into why we crave certain foods when we're feeling down.
One common theory is that the foods that comforted us as children become our go-to choices in adulthood. If your mom gave you pickles to soothe teething pain, you might associate pickles with comfort when you're stressed. While there's truth to this, the phenomenon of comfort food goes beyond mere psychological associations.
According to a theory from the University of California, we turn to high-fat, high-sugar foods to balance our hormones during times of chronic stress. When we're stressed, our adrenal glands release hormones called glucocorticoids. In immediate danger situations, like a car crash, these hormones can overwhelm our stress-response systems. However, during chronic stress, these hormones are released at lower levels, driving us to seek out pleasurable foods and accumulate abdominal fat. This sends a signal to the brain to halt the release of more stress hormones.
Numerous studies with rats support this theory. Chronically stressed rats consumed increasing amounts of sugar water until their stress responses diminished. Researchers concluded that the abdominal fat somehow sent an "all-clear" signal to regulate metabolism.
In another study conducted by Sue Zmarzty and colleagues at the Northern General Hospital Trust / Centre for Human Nutrition in the UK, participants ate high-fat or high-carb breakfasts and then dunked their hands in ice water. Those who consumed the fattier pancakes were more tolerant of pain. The conclusion was that high-fat foods might reduce the amount of pain a person feels, although the exact mechanism remains a mystery.
Our bodies clearly respond physically to comfort foods, meaning your craving for Mac 'n Cheese after a funeral isn't just in your head. People often resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms like self-harm or drugs to deal with pain and loss. In comparison, indulging in some extra fat seems relatively harmless, especially when your body is signaling you to do so.
When the need for comfort food arises, don't sit sadly in the rain or turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Instead, head to your kitchen and try one of these comforting recipes:
Although it may not be part of your balanced breakfast, this coffee cake is sweet and gooey—better for dessert than first thing in the morning.
An easy and delicious bisque recipe. Try it for an indulgent lunch!
Serve this one to family or friends, and your reputation as a gourmet is sealed.
This dish combines the elegance of a strata with the everyday appeal of mac 'n cheese.
Grandmother's cure for a sick child! This recipe is at least 50 years old.
These are no ordinary shortbread cookies. Layered with melted sugar and chocolate, they are to die for.
In conclusion, comfort foods offer more than just a psychological escape; they provide a physiological response that can help us cope with stress and pain. So the next time you're feeling down, don't hesitate to indulge in your favorite comfort food. Your body and mind might just thank you for it.
Misunderstood Foods: Separating Fact from Fiction
Many foods have been misunderstood over the years, often labeled as either harmful or beneficial without sufficient evidence. This article delves into six such foods: three that have been unfairly criticized and three that have been overly praised. Let's explore the myths and realities surrounding these foods.
The Fat Get Fatter
Jim admits he's got a weight problem, but he's in good company: most of America does, too. Why?
We Hate Heartburn
And we're pretty sure you do, too. Jim briefly explains how everyone's least favorite chest pain forms, and gives some tips on avoiding it!
