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What is the optimal flavor point and how it affects our food choices
Table of Contents
1. What is the point of bliss?
The point of bliss 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 scientists began to systematically analyze how specific proportions of food ingredients affect taste reception. The concept of the bliss point gained particular significance when Howard Moskowitz began research on the effects of sugar, salt, and fat on taste perception. His observations were groundbreaking, as he discovered that the ideal combination of these three components induces the highest level of sensory pleasure. After the publication of Moskowitz's research findings, the concept of the bliss point was applied to the food industry, leading to a plethora of highly flavorful products such as chips, cereals, carbonated beverages, sweets, and ready-made meals that aimed not only to satisfy consumer needs but also to increase sales. In this way, new standards were established in food production (P. Rao, R. L. Rodriguez, S. P. Shoemaker 2018).2. Risks associated with the utilization of the euphoria point in foodstuffs
The exploitation of the euphoria point concept in food production is associated with an extensive range of health and societal risks, as it can have a negative impact on public health and consumer nutritional habits.3. Excessive intake of calories
With reference to the bliss point theory, excessive caloric intake arises from the combination of ingredients that maximize sensory pleasure unrelated to the body's actual requirement for nutrients and energy. These products strongly stimulate the brain's reward system, which can weaken natural mechanisms for controlling hunger. Consequently, physiological signals such as stomach fullness cease to be the primary regulator, and instead food consumption is driven mainly by intense taste sensations. This, in turn, can lead to frequent cravings for high-calorie products and a regular energy surplus.4. Elevated risk of obesity and chronic health conditions
Excessive intake of products tailored to the bliss point, abundant in calories, simple carbohydrates, saturated fatty acids and artificial additives, may lead to a disturbance in the body's energy balance. It may also contribute to the accumulation of fat tissue and the development of obesity, which is a primary risk factor for many metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular diseases (Y. Zhang, E. L. Giovannucci 2022).5. Disturbances in taste perception and alterations in dietary preferences
Foodstuffs with strong flavors, such as sweets, fast food, and snacks, can disrupt taste balance and, as a result, accustom the body to more pronounced flavor sensations. Consequently, dietary preferences change in favor of highly processed products, and natural, less intense flavors become less appealing. 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. Dando 2021).6. Emotional dependence on food and eating disorders
Emotional dependence on food is a significant consequence of frequent consumption of products developed according to the bliss point theory. Upon frequent consumption, the reward mechanisms in the brain are activated, releasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which evokes a sense of pleasure. Over time, the body may begin to associate food with reward and develop an emotional dependence on food. In this case, the affected individual may not only reach for food due to hunger but also in response to stress, sadness, or other negative emotions. Such dependence is cyclical, as after the initial satisfaction, a drop in mood occurs, leading to another reach for food, creating a vicious cycle. Long-term dependence can lead to eating disorders such as compulsive overeating (BED) or bulimia, which are associated with a loss of control over the amount of food consumed and feelings of guilt and frustration. These disorders impact body image, lower self-esteem, and contribute to anxiety and depression. As a result, individuals with these problems often isolate themselves socially, making exiting the destructive cycle and returning to healthy habits even more challenging (Romero-Blanco et al., 2021).7. Peruse the product labels
Conscious choices commence from the shopping stage. It is essential to meticulously peruse labels and take into account the constituents of products. Try to restrict yourself to foods with high levels of sugar, salt, and saturated fats and instead opt for products with the least number of ingredients possible.8. Engage in mindful eating
Mindful eating is an exercise that enables you to regain mastery over your eating habits. The essential aspect is to consume meals gradually and unhurriedly, allowing the brain ample time to detect signals of satiety. Stay away from eating in front of the television or computer and pay attention to your body. Eat when you genuinely feel hunger, not due to boredom or an impulsive emotional response.9. Mastering the recognition of genuine hunger
Distinguishing between physical and emotional hunger is key in the process of conscious eating. Physical hunger develops gradually and is associated with natural bodily signals, such as a rumbling stomach or a drop in energy. Emotional hunger, on the other hand, arises suddenly and often stems from the need to elevate mood. Before satisfying such hunger, ask yourself: 'Am I truly hungry or merely seeking solace in food?'.10. Maintain your emotional balance
Unconscious food consumption often results from a lack of emotional management skills. It's beneficial to develop strategies to reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, walking, or talking to loved ones, so as not to think of food as a means to improve one's mood. Awareness of the food industry's influence on dietary decisions enables us to make more conscious choices, which support not only physical health but also mental well-being.
