There's an actual reason we can't stop eating comfort food in winter

We've all been guilty of craving a bowl bigger than our head filled with mac and cheese on a cold day- and now there is a reason for these cravings!

There are a few reasons why we all of a sudden need to eat a pie when it's raining outside, and science has come through with a legit reason so we no longer have to feel guilty!

1. The gut ‘speaks’ to the brain and the brain ‘speaks’ to our gut

Our stomachs are responsible for the production of the ‘happiness chemicals’ dopamine and serotonin. 

These chemicals are also produced by exposure to sunlight and exercise. Because both of these decline in winter (who the hell wants to work out in the cold?) our overall happiness level also goes down. 

Cold weather + dark outside = we want to feel happy = we eat comfort foods

2. Evolution 

Before the convenience of microwaves/refrigerators and supermarkets, our caveman ancestors had to eat foods that would sustain them for longer periods of time, especially in winter.

And although we aren't living in caves anymore, our bodies are still trained to crave the same foods.

3. Childhood

You know how if you eat something a lot as a child you’re more likely to hate it as an adult? Well turns out that’s not always the case when it comes to cravings.

We’re more likely to eat as adults whatever we were given as children in winter. 

Comfort food = happiness childhood memory = desire to recreate. 

Three reasons to eat comfort food? Yes PLEASE!