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Researchers from the University of East Anglia conducted a biometric analysis and found that smelling freshly baked pizza reduces stress, anxiety, and nervousness. This was reported by Secret NYC.
The study was conducted by Professor Oli Bakli, with podcaster Teo Baker participating as a subject. The professor measured his biometric indicators such as blood pressure, heart rate, and galvanic skin response (GSR).
This was conducted both before a football game and during the most nerve-wracking moments of the game. During this time, Baker inhaled the fragrant aroma of the pizza.
The results of the study showed that when Teo was near the baking pizza, he exhibited fewer signs of nervousness before the game. The pizza even had a calming effect on him.
"Evaluating Teo's reactions in two conditions — with and without pizza — showed that cooking and consuming frozen pizza has a significantly calming effect," says Professor Bakli.
Later, OnePoll conducted a survey to study others' reactions to the smell of baking pizza. The results were as follows:
- 42 percent said the smell gave them a sense of comfort;
- 28 percent noted it lifted their mood;
- 17 percent reported it evoked a feeling of exciting anticipation.
According to Cookist, one of the main reasons for pizza's mood-lifting ability is serotonin, the "happiness hormone" that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. The important amino acid tryptophan is found in many pizza toppings such as cheese, meat, and tomato sauce. When tryptophan reaches the brain, it converts to serotonin, helping to enhance feelings of relaxation and well-being.
