Why People Crave Sweets When Stressed?

By Yashika Goel
15 Jul 2025, 12:30 IST

Whenever you are stressed or have anxiety, you suddenly crave eating chocolate or sweets. Let’s find out the reason behind this.

What happens when you eat sweets?

When we eat sweets or sugar, it activates the release of dopamine, which is a feel-good neurotransmitter.

What happens when we are stressed?

When we are stressed, our body releases cortisol, which is a stress hormone. This demands our body more quick energy.

Sweets relax the mind

Eating sweets gives instant glucose, which makes your mind feel more relaxed. It also lowers cortisol levels and endorphins, which boosts your mood.

Connection between sweets and mood

Eating sweets helps release serotonin, which improves your mood. It also helps suppress your stressful emotions.

Sweet cravings in women

Hormonal fluctuations can also lead to sweet cravings, which are commonly experienced around pregnancy or periods. Sweets only provide temporary relief.

Emotional Eating

Using sweets or sugar to cope with stressful emotions is an unhealthy habit called emotional eating. It can lead to obesity or weight gain.

Information Credits

This information is taken from PubMed. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor for personalised suggestions.