Discover Why Your Soup Cravings Spike in October

As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, many people in the UK experience a shift in their food preferences, gravitating towards warming meals like soups and casseroles. According to psychotherapist and culinary psychology expert Stelios Kiosses from the University of Oxford, these cravings are deeply rooted in emotional connections rather than just physiological needs.

Kiosses explains that cravings for specific foods during autumn are tied to memory and emotion. He states, “You’re not just craving the soup itself, you’re craving a feeling.” This connection to food is significant, as it evokes memories and emotions linked to warmth, comfort, and familial traditions. For many, a bowl of homemade soup serves as a reminder of cozy evenings spent with loved ones, rather than merely satisfying hunger.

Food’s Impact on Memory and Emotion

The psychotherapist highlights that our senses, particularly smell and taste, are closely associated with the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotional responses and memory recall. When people indulge in seasonal dishes, they activate an emotional network, transporting them back to comforting moments. Kiosses elaborates, “The scent of spices warming on the stove, the crackle of a fire, the first sip of something hot after coming in from the cold—all of these can transport us instantly.”

As autumn progresses, many individuals report a desire for heartier meals. Kiosses notes that from October onwards, there is a natural inclination towards foods that align with the season, such as roasts and seasonal vegetables. He emphasizes that food serves as a signal for various life changes, including celebration and personal reflection, suggesting that autumn dining is a way to connect with these transitions.

Recognizing the Emotional Connection to Eating

Understanding the emotional context behind food cravings can enhance one’s dining experience. Kiosses encourages individuals to reflect on their food choices, stating, “Knowing when we’re reaching for food to soothe, to remember, or to celebrate can help us choose foods that align with how we want to feel, not just what we think we should eat.”

The winter months offer a unique opportunity to reconnect—not only with food but also with family and friends. Kiosses points out that this seasonal shift allows individuals to embrace parts of themselves that may have been overlooked during warmer months. He advises, “So whether it’s broccoli and stilton, a cream of tomato, or ham and leek, whatever you’re drawn to, don’t overthink it. Just notice the story it’s telling and enjoy it.”

In summary, the cravings for comforting dishes like soup during the colder months can be attributed to a complex interplay of memory and emotion, according to Kiosses. As people indulge in these seasonal flavors, they not only nourish their bodies but also reconnect with joyful memories and cherished traditions.