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What is bliss point and how it affects our food choices
Table of Contents
1. What's a bliss point?
Bliss point is a term coined by American psychologist Howard Moskowitz in the 1960s. It originally referred to the study of the optimal level of sensory stimuli that induce the greatest sense of pleasure. Although research into the psychology of taste had its beginnings much earlier, it was not until the 60s that it began to systematically analyze how specific proportions of food ingredients affect taste reception. The concept of bliss point gained particular significance when Howard Moscowski began research on the effects of sugar, salt, and fat on taste perception.2. Hazards associated with the use of bliss point in food
The use of the bliss point concept in food production carries a number of health and social risks as it can have a negative impact on public health and consumer nutritional habits.3. Excessive consumption of calories
In the context of the bliss point theory, excessive caloric intake results from a combination of ingredients that maximize sensory pleasure unrelated to the body's actual need for nutrients and energy. These products activate the reward system in the brain strongly, which can weaken natural appetite control mechanisms. As a result, physiological signals, such as stomach fullness, cease to be the main regulator, and instead food intake is driven mainly by intense taste sensations. This in turn can lead to frequent cravings for high-calorie products and a regular energy deficit.4. Increased risk of obesity and chronic disease
Excessive consumption of bliss-point-optimized products high in calories, as well as high in simple carbohydrates, saturated fatty acids and artificial additives can lead to a disruption of the body's energy balance. It can also promote fat deposition and the development of obesity, which is a major risk factor for many metabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease (Y. Zhang, E. L. Giovannucci 2022).5. Disorders of taste perception and changes in dietary preferences
As a result, food preferences change in favor of highly processed products, and natural, less intense flavors become less attractive. Long-term consumption of such products can lead to addiction to certain flavors and significantly hinder a return to a more balanced diet (F. Harnischfeger, R. Dandock 2021).6. Emotional dependence on food and eating disorders
Emotional dependence on food is a serious consequence of frequent reaching for bliss-point-designed products. In this case, people with this problem begin to reach for food not only from hunger, but also in response to stress, sadness or other negative emotions. Such dependence is cyclical in nature, since after initial satiation, these self-deprecating problems can lead to a decrease in the body's self-esteem and self-control.7. Read the product labels
Conscious choices start at the buying stage. It's important to read the labels carefully and pay attention to the composition of the products. Try to limit foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fats and instead reach for products with the shortest possible composition.8. Practice mindful eating
Mindful eating is a practice that allows you to regain control of your eating habits. The key is to eat your meals slowly, without hurry, so that your brain has time to recognize signs of satiety. Avoid eating in front of your TV or computer and listen to your body. Eat when you're really hungry, not out of boredom or under an emotional impulse.9. Learn to recognize true hunger
The distinction between physical hunger and emotional hunger is crucial in the process of conscious eating. Physical hunger occurs gradually and is associated with the body's natural signals, such as a tumble in the stomach or a drop in energy. Emotional hunger, on the other hand, occurs suddenly and often results from the need to improve your mood. And before you reach for a snack, ask yourself, 'Am I really hungry, or am I just looking for comfort in food?'10. Take care of your emotional balance
Unconscious eating often results from a lack of emotional management skills. It's worth developing strategies to reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, walking, or talking to loved ones, so as not to think of food as a way to improve your mood.
