Sour Candies and Mental Health

Did You Know Sour Candies Might Boost Your Mood?

It Is A Sensory Reset!

Sour candies provide an intense sensory experience that can help break negative thought patterns. A study published in Emotion (2014) found that strong, intense tastes, like sour flavors, can act as an emotional "shock," pulling you out of stress and offering a momentary reset. The sharp taste forces your brain to focus on the present, distracting you from anxious or negative thoughts.

Most sour candies are loaded with sugar, which triggers the release of dopamine, the brain’s feel-good chemical. Research published in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews (2014) shows that sugar can briefly boost mood and energy by increasing dopamine levels. This explains why you might feel a quick lift after indulging in something sweet. However, this effect is short-lived, and too much sugar can lead to crashes later on. So don’t pop them 24/7 folks.

For many, sour candies bring back fond childhood memories, offering comfort and a sense of security. Studies suggest that nostalgia can reduce stress and improve well-being, acting as a psychological buffer against negative emotions. Just reaching for a familiar treat can provide emotional relief when life feels tough.

But…,

Despite their intense flavors that serve as a quick emotional reset, and the sugar boost can lift your mood—it is all temporary. Seek a professional help if you must.