When I say the words, “comfort food,” what do you think of?
Merriam-Webster.com defines it as follows: “food prepared in a traditional style having a usually nostalgic or sentimental appeal.”
I think it’s fairly safe to say that many of us have turned to comfort food since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in order to find something familiar, safe, and, well, comforting.
Believe it or not, this post isn’t going to be about how to turn familiar comfort food recipes into healthier versions. It’s totally possible to do. Surprisingly, sometimes, it’s even nearly impossible to tell the difference. And while I may be a health coach, that’s not my purpose today.
Comfort food is good for your health, specifically, your mental and emotional health. (Let’s be honest. It won’t always be good for your weight…)
What do you consider comfort food? For me, it’s recipes like my dad’s beef stroganoff and rice pilaf, or spaghetti carbonara, or our family version of a big chef salad, or chocolate pudding. What do those have in common? They’re mostly rich, full of carbohydrates (potentially), and high in fat. Why are they comforting? One: memories. Many, many times through my life, those foods have been around for family celebrations or just because we needed pick-me-ups. I remember the first time I made each recipe and it turned out like Dad’s; I was ecstatic! Two: eating food that are high-fat/high-sugar activates your brain’s reward system, improving your mood.
There are drawbacks, too, of course. Too many high-calorie, high-fat foods are not great for your physical health. What’s the answer? Find the balance. Make the comfort food, but figure out how to make it a little healthier. (I KNOW, I know. I couldn’t resist. ;) I didn’t try too hard either.) Make the comfort food, and accompany it with a salad. Drink more water. Make the comfort food, and then go for an after-dinner walk.
Cheers! Here’s to your health!