Over the years, experts have suggested that giving into cravings is often the result of falling victim to emotional eating which is commonly linked to feelings of sadness, loneliness or anxiety.
"The opposite is often true," Wansink said. "People are more apt to seek out comfort foods when they're jubilant or when they want to celebrate or reward themselves."
Wansink also stated that the types of food that give us comfort may vary according to mood. Cases in point: If you're feeling happy, you're likely to get a jones for pizza. Get the blues and you won't be able to get those chocolate chip cookies off your mind.
The study also showed that adults often crave foods that connect with specific personal events or to people in their lives (e.g., desiring particular foods someone you love enjoyed).
Some foods stir vivid reactions when tasted or smelled or come to be associated with personal identity.
The following resources may help you cope with cravings and find ways to enjoy comfort foods without consuming too many calories:
