Pasta is good not only for the body but also for the mood: what many Italians have long suspected has now been scientifically confirmed. A study conducted by the Cattolica University of the Sacred Heart in collaboration with the Barilla Group has revealed a concrete link between pasta consumption and emotional well-being. Published in the journal Food Science & Nutrition, the research shows how such a simple and traditional food can positively influence mood, reduce stress, and even improve quality of life.
But what makes a plate of pasta truly special? It's not just about carbohydrates and calories, but memories, emotional bonds, and family rituals. Pasta is often a symbol of home, sharing, and caring: elements that, together, play a key role in promoting happiness. In an age where comfort food is often viewed with suspicion, this discovery rehabilitates an icon of Italian cuisine, demonstrating that, when consumed in moderation, pasta can become a true ally of mental health.
Eating Pasta Improves Emotional Well-Being
The heart of the study revolves around a surprising finding: people who eat pasta at least three times a week report higher levels of happiness and psychological well-being, as well as reduced stress. This positive effect appears to be linked not only to nutritional aspects, but also to the cultural and emotional value that the dish holds in the daily lives of Italians.
Of the study participants, 41% said they associated pasta with family moments, 21% with positive emotions, and 10% with a feeling of pleasure and gratification. Pasta, therefore, is more than just food: it is memory, sharing, and home. A plate of pasta often evokes peaceful moments, Sunday lunches, and conviviality. This emotional connection reinforces its beneficial effect on mood.
From a scientific standpoint, the explanation is solid: the consumption of complex carbohydrates, such as those found in pasta, stimulates the production of serotonin, the neurotransmitter known as the "happiness hormone." Serotonin plays a fundamental role in regulating mood, sleep, and appetite.
More Benefits if Shared
Another interesting aspect that emerged from the study is that eating pasta in company further enhances its positive effects. The sociability of a meal—especially when shared with loved ones—has a greater psychological impact than other foods, such as rice, bread, or pizza. It's not just a matter of taste, but of shared emotions.
The Cattolica University research, led by Professor Francesco Pagnini and conducted on a sample of over 1,500 Italian adults, highlights the cultural and psychological value of pasta. Despite the clichés surrounding its diet, the study demonstrates that pasta—when consumed in moderation—can be a true ally for mental health.
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