Nutritionists say there is science behind why people can feel particularly low despite eating their favourite meal, which could be anything from pizza, to burger and chips or fried chicken
Pizza is the meal that makes Brits feel the unhappiest, new research shows.
Nothing makes many of us feel better after a long day at work than cozying up on the sofa and tucking into a piping-hot cheesy slice of pizza. Yet, nearly half of Brits admit they feel “bad” after eating it, the survey says.
And the same can be pretty much said for most comfort meals, like burgers and chips, Yorkshire puddings and fried chicken. Nutritionists say it is because the fat, refined carbohydrates and salt can cause bloating and a slump after consumption.
But pizza, fried chicken and even one of the nation’s favourites – fish and chips – still activate initial reward centres in the brain. They are often our go-to treats after difficult days, the poll highlights.
Lily Soutter, a nutritionist who worked on the study, said: “These typically beige meals often come in large portion sizes and are high in fat, refined carbohydrates and salt, which may lead to the common post-meal slump and uncomfortable bloating. They also lack the same brain-friendly nutrients and fibre found in wholefoods.”
Indeed, 42 per cent of those surveyed said they feel miserable after eating fish and chips. The meal, like other popular comfort foods, often cause an emotional dip after consumption.
In reality, 85 per cent are left feeling bloated for an average of 47 minutes after eating their favourite meals. The research states that foods like grilled chicken with crunchy cabbage and steamed salmon with roasted vegetables and herbed potatoes are more likely to make us happy.
Ms Soutter added: “Nutrition plays a powerful role in emotional wellbeing. Simple swaps – like adopting a Mediterranean diet alongside managing our stress and improving sleep – can have a profound impact on improving our mood.
“Other ways to support your emotional wellbeing through diet and lifestyle include incorporating more gut-friendly foods, staying hydrated, practicing mindful eating and embracing the power of supplements. Research shows that almost half (46 per cent) of people don’t currently take probiotics, even though a quarter (24 per cent) are considering it.”
Garden of Life, who commissioned the survey of 2,000 Brits, said the survey reinforces the link between a healthy and balanced diet, and healthy mental and physical health.
The top 20 ‘unhappiest’ meals, according to the study
- Pizza – 46 per cent (of Britons say this tastes good, but makes them feel bad afterwards)
- Fish and chips – 42 per cent
- Burger and chips – 32 per cent
- A roast with Yorkshire puddings – 29 per cent
- Fried chicken and chips – 25 per cent
- Steak and chips – 22 per cent
- A full English – 22 per cent
- Doner kebab – 21 per cent
- Chicken tikka masala – 20 per cent
- Bacon sandwich – 19 per cent
- Spaghetti bolognese – 18 per cent
- Apple crumble and custard – 18 per cent
- Sausage and mash – 15 per cent
- Grilled cheese sandwich – 14 per cent
- Mac and cheese – 14 per cent
- Baked potato with cheese and baked beans – 14 per cent
- Chicken nuggets – 14 per cent
- Sticky toffee pudding – 13 per cent
