Why does eating sweet foods help to improve a persons mood?

Eating sweet food improves mood because it can alleviate a dysphoric mood as it provides more energy and can lead to an increase in the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can therefore reduce depression. Evidence that supports this is seen with Gibson, who found that people increased the fat and carbohydrate content of their meals when stressed or depression. This supports the idea that people eat sweet food to improve their mood as it shows that in order to feel less stressed and depressed, to feel better with the increase in serotonin, which is a calming and mood elevating neurotransmitter.

AB
Answered by Alex B. Psychology tutor

9849 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Marie analyses the profiles of people using online dating apps Tinder, Hinge and Bumble. She finds that on average, women tend to upload photos to their profile that advertise their physical looks, while men upload photos that advertise resources and weal


Explain the biological basis of Depression.


What is the difference between a structured interview and an unstructured interview, and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each?


How can I improve my AO2/AO3 marks?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning