On Thanksgiving, you’ll find mashed potatoes, pies and other delectables we call comfort foods. But why is comfort food so darn comforting? Carb comfort foods trigger your brain to release serotonin, which boosts mood. But there’s more to the story. Comfort food may remind us of friends and family (like when you all celebrate over the holidays!). This in turn could help reduce feelings of loneliness.

College students who ate chicken soup and associated the soup with loved ones, felt less lonely after. Emotional eating can offer temporary comfort, but too much fat and sugar will leave you sluggish later. Knowing your food craving-triggers will help you eat mindfully and treat your beautiful body right. Happy Thanksgiving!

QUIZ: What’s Driving Your Eating Behavior?