I grew up eating “comfort foods”. My parents were of the generation that did not know frying foods was bad for you. Or that there was any such thing as “too much” of anything! I’ll never forget playing outside all day and being called into the house for dinner – totally ravenous! Fried chicken, mashed potatoes, buttery home-made yeast rolls and, of course, dessert with every meal!

So, it’s no wonder that those foods denote “comfort” for me. However, it’s certainly not a diet I can maintain these days without ever-expanding my waistline in the process. Comfort foods now must be enjoyed only occasionally.

What causes food to give us comfort? First, “comfort food” is generally defined as “food that causes a psychologically pleasurable state for a person. Studies have shown that what we define as “comfort food” is determined at an early age and caused not only by hunger, but also by conditional associations.

Gender differences also define what we consider comfort food. Men tend to prefer foods that their mother’s prepared for them, while women tend to go for treats like chocolate or ice cream.

A common thought is that we indulge in these foods when we are sad. However, the opposite is more likely true, we indulge when we are happy, and celebrating or congratulating ourselves. Our moods can also affect what we reach for – chocolate when we are depressed – or maybe popcorn when we are bored.

A specific trigger often causes the desire for a certain comfort food. If your mother always gave you chicken soup when you were sick – that could be a big comfort to you as an adult when feeling ill. If your Dad took you for pizza after winning a baseball game, then that may be your favorite way to celebrate an accomplishment as an adult.

Food can certainly be a strong trigger for memories, both good and bad. If you’ve ever gotten sick after eating a particular food, you know what I mean! My Father, who passed away some time ago, loved buttermilk. And although I don’t like it myself, the thought of buttermilk brings fond memories of him.

Since indulging in our favorite comfort foods is a wonderful experience for anyone, it makes a perfect gift. This is especially true during the holidays, when the wonderful memories of great food and loving families are all around us.

This Christmas, consider sending yourself or someone you love the gift of the ultimate comfort food!