Neuroscientists at the Institute of Psychiatry in London wanted to find out if eating ice cream made people happier. The study used a functional magnetic resonance imaging machine to watch the reaction in participants’ brains upon swallowing a bite of vanilla ice cream. With a single swallow, the orbitofrontal cortex at the front of the brain lit up in response. This part of the brain is known for “processing” and is known to become activated when people enjoy themselves. Science has now shown what ice cream lovers have always known: a little bit of ice cream goes a long way in chasing the blues away.

The science doesn’t stop there. Ice cream contains protein and fat, both of which our bodies need to help level our moods. On top of that, the amino acids you take in when eating ice cream, such as tryptophan, are known to increase serotonin production. That leaves us feeling calm, satisfied, and well, happy!

Eating ice cream instantly transports us back to wonderful childhood experiences. When we eat ice cream, our brain remembers those positive feelings and we learn to associate the treat with happiness. Of course, one cannot rely on ice cream alone for a happy, fulfilling life, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to include it is as part of a well-balanced, individual pursuit of happiness when eaten responsibly.

https://www.grahamsfamilydairy.com/news-events/blog/can-eating-ice-cream-make-you-feel-happy/

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• Emotional Health