What foods bring you comfort? Meatloaf and mashed potatoes? Pizza with the “works”? Mom’s lasagna? Likely some foods enjoyed during your youth conjure up warm, soothing feelings. There’s no specific list of comfort foods. We each have our own.
So, is indulging in comfort foods okay? Sure – if it doesn’t lead to emotional overeating, if you also deal with negative emotions positively and away from food, and if it isn’t all the time. If these foods are high fat, high calorie, or low in nutrients, certainly go easy.
When you reach for comfort foods, enjoy them in moderation.
- Boost their value. Add vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans—easier if pizza, chili, spaghetti, or many other mixed entrées are your comfort foods.
- Savor the comfort from small portions, especially if the food is high in calories or fat.
- Update comfort foods for nutrition and convenience. Perhaps substitute ground turkey in meatloaf, reduced-fat cheese in lasagna, refrigerated whole-wheat pizza crust topped with lots of veggies.
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