The psychology of comfort food: nostalgia, memory, and emotional eating
By
Debbie Koenig
Crackling crust, pillowy middle. The kind of bagel that earns a second cup of coffee.
Summary
This article explores the psychology behind comfort food cravings, tracing the term's origin to psychologist Joyce Brothers in 1966. It examines how nostalgia, childhood memories, and emotional associations shape our food preferences, with cultural and family traditions playing a major role. The piece discusses how comfort foods are often tied to positive memories and emotional regulation, and suggests that understanding these connections could help people recondition themselves toward healthier comfort food choices.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledAdults, when under severe emotional stress, turn to the foods that were associated with security and love in childhood.
Comfort foods are not just about taste — they're about the memories and emotions we attach to them.
The foods we crave in times of stress are often the same ones that made us feel safe and cared for as children.
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