In times of stress and hardship, it can be tempting to grab for your favorite snacks and foods in search of comfort. In fact, the term “comfort foods” is quite popular among Americans — many of whom believe that certain foods can invoke feelings of happiness during some of our bluer moments. However, a relatively new study conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota has found that in reality, comfort food does very little to make people feel better about themselves.
For the study, a group of students were shown a series of depressing movie clips. Following the viewing, half of the students were given their favorite comfort foods, whereas the other half were just given food in general. The study results showed that all students felt better after eating, regardless of the type of foods they ending up eating.
The University of Minnesota study is just one case that proves that comfort foods don’t truly make a difference in helping you feel better. Therefore, if you’re having a bad day, it makes sense to engage in other activities that will help lift your mood, and make you feel better.
Here are three ways you can distract yourself from indulging in comfort foods when you’re feeling a bit down.
1. Get some rest, or take a nap
Sleeping in general helps speed up your body’s recovery process, regardless of whether it’s in the physical or mental sense. Have you ever heard anyone use the term, “let me sleep on it” before making a big decision? That’s because a good night’s sleep can help you feel refreshed and ready to face the day. Additionally, studies have shown that just a 30-minute nap can result in improved learning, wakefulness, and enhanced performance. Sleep also helps regulate your hunger hormones and prevents you from indulging in junk food.
