There are certain factors that can be beneficial for your mental health. These could be family, friends, music, journaling and more. It can also be eating your favourite meal at your favourite place or home. It can be a home-cooked meal or a particular dish at a restaurant or street-side store. This happens because these meals give you a certain level of comfort which positively influences your mental health.

Here, take a look at how eating comfort foods can help to improve your mental health. Immediate Emotional ReliefComfort foods are usually \high in carbs and sugars. This can trigger the release of serotonin which is a neurotransmitter that gives you a feeling of happiness and well-being. This boost in mood can give temporary emotional relief during stressful or overwhelming times. Triggers Positive MemoriesComfort foods are linked to happy and pleasant memories from childhood or special occasions. Eating these foods can give you a sense of nostalgia and emotional comfort. This reinforces a feeling of security and reduces stress. Reduces Stress Foods that are high in sugar and fat can stimulate the brain’s reward system by releasing dopamine which is a chemical linked to pleasure and motivation. This helps to lower stress and anxiety by causing feelings of satisfaction, even though it is short-lived. Act of Self-CareWhen you prepare and enjoy comfort foods, it acts as a form of self-care. This gives you a mental break from the stressors of daily life. The act of cooking or indulging in a favourite dish can create a sense of nurturing and personal attention, thereby, promoting relaxation and emotional well-being. Builds Social Connections When you share comfort foods with others, it can help build social bonds which are important for mental health. Whether through family gatherings or eating out with friends, food can help strengthen relationships, give you a sense of belonging and reduce loneliness. Improves Energy Levels Several comfort foods serve as a quick source of energy, especially those that are rich in carbohydrates. This can boost both physical and mental energy levels, thereby, making it easier to cope with fatigue or low mood. Satisfaction In uncertain times, comfort foods act as a predictable source of satisfaction and joy. Knowing that a specific food will provide a certain flavour and texture, it can bring a sense of control and stability. This helps to reduce anxiety and give you an emotional balance. Distraction from Negative EmotionsEating comfort foods can serve as a distraction, thereby, giving the brain a break from processing negative emotions. This pause can provide temporary mental relief, thereby, allowing people to calm down and process their feelings.