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Different components in food can affect how you feel after you eat them. When broken down in the body, these components can affect blood sugar levels and stimulate the release of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals) that send messages throughout your body. These include serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and acetylcholine.

(This is the version of Harvey Simon’s “Is the Weaker Sex Healthier?” that was posted on Intelihealth. There are major edits.)

As the days get shorter and the temperatures fall, we tend to reach for our favorite comfort foods to lift our moods. Here are some helpful tips for making healthier choices, while keeping comfort foods comforting and hunger at bay with moderate portions.