Valentine’s Day is often filled with grand romantic gestures, but sometimes, the simplest things like sharing a meal create the most meaningful connections. Food helps bring people closer, whether cooking together, enjoying a favourite dish, or indulging in a sweet treat. It plays a key role in influencing our mood, energy, and emotional well-being.
We spoke to Eshanka Wahi, a Dubai and Delhi-based Culinary Nutritionist, Holistic Wellness Coach, and Founder, Eat Clean With Eshanka, who shared insights on how food nurtures relationships and well-being.
How Food Influences Relationships and Well-Being on Valentine’s Day
Science Behind Love and Food
Food helps you to control neurochemistry and emotions. For example, food like chocolate allows you to increase neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine. "These neurotransmitters transmit signals in the brain cells, which help supervise mood, emotions, and behaviour. Also, following a proper and healthy diet supports emotional well-being," said Wahi.
Food consumption plays a significant role in dating, as sharing meals fosters, deepens and sustains social connections. The choice of foods can indicate the level of closeness in a relationship and offer insights into each person's background or preferences, according to a 2009 study.
Also Read: Feeling Low? Having These 8 Foods Can Boost Your Mood
Sensual Foods
"Nutrients such as zinc, magnesium, and antioxidants play a crucial role in improving mood and energy. Foods, such as dark chocolate, avocados, strawberries, and oysters help boost mood as they contain rich nutrients, minerals, and healthy fats. These foods also help engage your senses," added Wahi.
Nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and seeds can enhance cheerfulness, contentment, and happiness. In contrast, certain foods may contribute to negative emotions such as anger, frustration, tension, or anxiety. Additionally, when experiencing sadness, people often crave comfort foods that are typically high in salt or sugar, as well as alcohol, as per the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR).
The Emotional Bonding of Sharing a Meal
Sharing is caring; it builds an emotional bond among partners. Meals are often made with care and affection, which has a significant impact on emotional bonding. According to the Frontiers in Psychology, when people share food, their relationship is perceived as more intimate. When one person feeds another, the bond between them becomes even stronger.
"Savouring each bite, and eating mindfully makes for a more meaningful experience. Nourishing your body with care is crucial, whether dining alone or in company," added Wahi.
Also Read: Valentine’s Day 2025: Building Healthy Habits Together For Couples Celebrating For Love That Lasts
Nutritious Delights for Valentine’s Day
Here are a few guilt-free dessert ideas for you, listed by Wahi:
- Banana Ice Cream: Blend frozen bananas with a splash of almond milk for a creamy, dairy-free ice cream. It is high in nutrients and lower in calories and fats, and bananas provide you with a natural sweetness, which eliminates artificial sugar.
- Avocado Chocolate Mousse: Blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder, honey, and a splash of vanilla extract for a creamy, nutrient-dense treat. It contains many health benefits, as it is high in fibre, rich in antioxidants, helps you reduce bad cholesterol, and boosts brain and mood health.
- Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds: A perfect mix of crunch and rich cocoa flavour, almonds provide healthy fats and protein, while dark chocolate (70% or higher) adds antioxidants. This combination is a good source of protein and fibre, rich in antioxidants, heart-healthy, and boosts mood and reduces stress.
Bottomline
Wahi concluded, "This Valentine's Day, let's remember that it's not just about sharing love with others, but also about giving extra care to ourselves. Let's all try to have a healthier and happier relationship with food!"
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]