Food is what fuels our body, and we all have different tastes, preferences, and experiences when it comes to what we eat.

But have you ever considered how our food choices can impact our mental health? The food we consume can have a significant impact on our mood, anxiety level, and overall mental wellbeing. As we navigate through challenging times, it’s essential to find ways to calm our minds and alleviate stress. One way to support those efforts is through comfort foods that are known for their impressive ability to soothe the soul.

What are Comfort Foods?

Comfort foods are those that evoke a sense of nostalgia and evoke feelings of comfort and pleasure. These foods are often associated with positive memories and emotions, and they are frequently enjoyed during times of stress or emotional distress.

Comfort foods are often high in sugar, fat, and carbohydrates, which may help to stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and wellbeing.

Top 10 Comfort Foods for Calming the Mind

1. Mac and Cheese

Nothing is quite as comforting as a warm bowl of mac and cheese. It’s a classic comfort dish that typically features rich and comforting cheese sauce poured over elbow macaroni, making it the ultimate comfort food.

It’s loaded with carbs, which the body converts into energy, and cheese, which is a natural source of tryptophan, an amino acid that aids in the production of serotonin. So, the next time you’re feeling blue, grab a bowl of mac and cheese and let the comfort wash over you.

2. Mashed Potatoes

For many of us, mashed potatoes are a staple comfort food that reminds us of home-cooked meals and celebrations. Soft, buttery, and pillowy, they are easy to eat and go down smoothly.

Mashed potatoes are high in carbohydrates and potassium, making them a natural energy booster that can help to calm stress and boost mood.

3. Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese is a childhood favorite that we never truly grow out of. It’s hard to resist the gooey, melted cheese sandwiched between two slices of buttery toasted bread.

Grilled cheese sandwiches are rich in carbohydrates, making them a natural mood booster. Plus, consuming warm, gooey cheeses is a great way to stimulate the production of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of bonding, love, and comfort.

4. Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup is a tried and true remedy for the common cold and a perfect comfort food for stressful times. This soothing soup is high in protein, which your body needs to produce serotonin.

It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for boosting your immune system. The combination of warm noodles, savory broth, and chunks of tender chicken makes it a comforting and soothing food for when you need it most.

5. Chocolate

It’s no surprise that chocolate makes the list of top comfort foods. Chocolate is a natural mood booster that stimulates the production of serotonin and endorphins, which are both associated with improved mood and stress reduction.

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Dark chocolate, in particular, is high in antioxidants, and it can reduce cortisol levels, which can help to alleviate stress. Not to mention, the sweet and savory flavor of chocolate is enough to satisfy even the most intense cravings.

6. Pizza

Pizza is one of the world’s favorite comfort foods, offering a combination of carbs, fats, and protein.

The dough and cheese provide carbohydrates and protein while the tomato sauce offers lycopene, which is associated with stress relief and mood regulation. Plus, the act of sharing a pizza with friends and family can create deepen bonds and promote social connection, two things that are highly beneficial for mental health.

7. Ice Cream

Ice cream is one of the most indulgent and delicious comfort foods out there. Eating ice cream can help to stimulate the production of endorphins and other mood-boosting neurotransmitters.

Plus, ice cream has a high fat content, which can slow down the absorption of sugars and promote a gradual release of energy, keeping you feeling satisfied and energized for a more extended period.

8. Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a comforting and tasty food that has a lovely, crispy outer layer and tender meat on the inside.

It’s high in protein, which your body needs to produce dopamine, and it’s also an excellent source of comfort during stressful times. Additionally, consuming fried chicken can help to increase the production of the hormone serotonin, which can lead to feelings of relaxation and calm.

9. Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is a warm, comforting beverage that is perfect for cold, dreary days. It’s high in carbohydrates, which provide energy and can stimulate the production of serotonin, helping to regulate mood.

Additionally, the act of holding a warm cup of hot chocolate can promote feelings of comfort and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for calming the mind.

10. Lasagna

Lasagna is a hearty and satisfying comfort food that is high in carbohydrates, protein, and fat. The combination of noodles, cheeses and meat sauce provides a range of nutrients that can improve mood and promote feelings of wellbeing.

Additionally, the savory taste and warm, comforting texture of lasagna make it an excellent choice for relieving stress and boosting mood.

Conclusion

Comfort foods are delicious and satisfying and can provide much-needed relief during times of stress and anxiety.

However, it’s important to note that these foods should be consumed in moderation, as overindulging in comfort foods can lead to health problems. Nevertheless, when consumed mindfully, comfort foods can be an excellent tool for calming the mind and reducing stress, leading to improved mental wellbeing.