It's Like Candy!: The Surprising Connection Between Sweet Treats and Mental Wellbeing

In today's fast-paced world, mental health is more important than ever. We often think about exercise, mindfulness, and therapy as ways to boost our mental health. Yet, one surprising ally in this journey may be the sweet foods we love to enjoy. Research shows that consuming sweet treats could actually have significant benefits for our mental well-being, challenging the common view of sugar as simply a guilty pleasure.

The Science Behind Sweetness and Wellbeing

Research shows that sweet foods activate the brain's reward system, leading to the release of serotonin, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter. This natural process helps regulate mood and emotions. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that consuming sugar can lead to short-term improvements in mood, especially after stressful experiences. Of course, too much sugar can lead to negative effects, such as energy crashes, mood swings and a plethora of other negative health outcomes, so moderation is key. But incorporating moderate amounts of sweet treats—like a piece of dark chocolate or a scoop of vanilla ice cream—into a balanced diet can improve emotional well-being. Research suggests that small portions can significantly elevate mood for up to two hours after consumption.

Comfort in Consuming Sweet Foods

Sweet foods often come with precious memories and nostalgia. Whether it’s savoring chocolate cake at a birthday celebration or delighting in warm cookies fresh from the oven, these experiences can create positive emotions. A study from the University of California showed that 70% of respondents felt a sense of nostalgia when enjoying comfort foods, linking these moments to improved mood and reduced stress.

Indulging in beloved foods not only brings joy but also serves as a form of self-care, allowing us to relax and melt away stress. By embracing these little pleasures, we cultivate a deeper connection with our emotions and overall well-being.

Managing Cravings Responsibly

While sweet foods can provide some mental health benefits, it's essential to manage cravings wisely. Overindulging on sugar can lead to a variety of negative health effects, including obesity, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, potential links to certain cancers, cognitive decline and even depression and anxiety.  Research has also shown that excessive sugar intake has been linked to increased rates of cardiovascular disease. and heart attacks (but not the kind you like).

An over-indulgence on sweets can also create a sense of fullness from empty calories, depriving us of more nutrient rich foods by taking our appetite (and that's NOT alright)! For these reasons, practicing moderation is crucial. Instead of making sweets a daily staple, it’s better to enjoy them as treats or rewards. Research shows that limiting sugary snacks to two times a week can help maintain emotional balance and prevent energy crashes.

Choosing natural sugars found in fruits such as strawberries, raspberries (and all those good things) or opting for dark chocolate can also satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising health. For example, a medium apple contains about 19 grams of sugar but also provides fiber and vitamins that boost mood and energy.

Music Behind the Message

This classic hit reached #1 on the R&B charts and remains popular among the current generation thanks to Tik Tok. Though Cameo started as a 70s funk band, this upbeat, mid-80s R&B track would become its biggest hit and signature song. Click below to hear the inspiration for this blog.

Candy- Cameo (1986)