There isn’t much these days to feel happy about. The cost of living squeezing you for every last cent, wars everywhere, the embarrassment we all feel from the results of Triple J’s Hottest 100 of Australian songs. Even Ozzy Osbourne couldn’t take it anymore. But there is one thing that is always guaranteed to bring you joy, no matter how bleak the outside world might seem, and it’s something that the Italians have known for centuries – pasta. Pasta makes everything better. 

So it was with zero astonishment that we read about a recent study which has found that eating pasta makes you happier. Che sorpresa! 

The study, published in the Journal of Food Science and Nutrition and undertaken by (yes, of course) Italian researchers, found that pasta consumption is associated with increased happiness, reduced stress, increased mindfulness and improved overall quality of life. Well, duh. 

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Credit: Chris Court

But what is interesting is that the researchers found these effects were more heightened when pasta was enjoyed in a social setting, whether that be at a family gathering (possibly depending on the family) or at a dinner with friends. 

“Our research indicates that the simple act of sharing a pasta meal can create lasting emotional connections and provide comfort like no other,” says Professor Francesco Pagnini, who led the study. “According to this study, no other carbohydrate-based food – such as rice, bread, pizza or other nutritional options – is able to trigger such an increase in happiness as pasta when consumed with others. The data suggest that the combination of pasta and social interaction significantly boosts happiness levels.”

If we may interject here, professor? You see, while sharing a delicious pasta meal with those you hold nearest and dearest is always a most joyous occasion, nothing compares to the anarchic delights of cooking up a huge vat of lasagne and eating it straight out of the baking dish. With a giant spoon. On the lounge. In your pyjamas. While watching repeats of The Bear. Have you quantified that into your research? We’ll be here when you’re ready.

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