Can we find comfort on the plate? According to the concept of “comfort food“, The answer is yes. If winter brings its share of inconveniences with the cold, the rain or the icy wind, the generous dishes of the season warm the heart and comfort.
Born in the United States in the 2000s, the trend of “comfort food“ emerged in response to successive financial crises in the country. Americans then feel the need to reassure themselves, to console themselves. The phenomenon is spreading rapidly. Many restaurants are created for one purpose: to provide comfort through cooking. Fashion crosses the Atlantic Ocean and quickly arrives in France.
In a single bite, the “comfort food“, also nicknamed “cuddly food”, will trigger a feeling of well-being and immediate comfort, by touching the area of the brain affected by emotions. For a moment, the hassles of everyday life disappear. And in addition to comforting, these foods fill the stomach as it should.
Why are we drawn to these foods?
Often this type of food is associated with a particular memory or person. The smell of chocolate cake in her grandmother’s oven, the Sunday roast chicken, the winter holiday fondue… So many memories that take us back to good times past and take us out of everyday life for a few moments. .
As opposed to junk food, “comfort food“ wanna getting closer to more traditional products and claims to be nostalgic for family cooking… But be careful not to over-eat: despite their comforting appearance, these dishes are still very rich and are not necessarily the healthiest.
With moderation
As part of a healthy and varied diet (fruits, vegetables, starches and proteins), it is important to have fun with these cuddly dishes, about once a week. Even as part of a diet, no food is prohibited, as long as it is consumed in reasonable quantities. “Restrictions and obligations do not mix well with serene weight loss over the long term”, indicated dietitian nutritionist Béatrice Bénavant-Marco in a previous article.
Read also:
- How to beat the winter blues?
- 9 foods you can snack on without feeling guilty (because they are good for your health)
- A week of detox menus
