Ever feel like stress is just part of the daily routine? Whether it’s cramming for finals or keeping up with bills, you’re definitely not alone in wanting a break. But here’s something unexpected—science might have just found a comforting solution, and it smells a lot like pizza.
Yep, really. A new study out of the University of East Anglia in England suggests that the scent of freshly baked pizza can actually help reduce stress and boost your mood. And no—you don’t even have to eat it to feel the benefits.
According to the research, 42% of people said the smell made them feel comforted. About 28% noticed a lift in their mood, and 17% felt a wave of excited anticipation. All just from catching a whiff of pizza.
So, what’s going on here? It turns out our brain’s limbic system—the part responsible for emotions and memories—lights up when we smell something comforting and familiar. And that kind of sensory cue can trigger the release of mood-boosting chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.
In other words, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, you might not need a long vacation or an expensive self-care routine. A walk past your favorite pizza shop just might do the trick.
