Eating to feel better: The role of comfort eating in chronic pain

Comfort eating among individuals suffering from chronic pain

This study explores the phenomenon of comfort eating among individuals suffering from chronic pain, revealing significant insights into its perceived functions. Chronic pain patients often engage in comfort eating as a response to pain, yet the specific functions of this behavior remain under-researched. A sample of 141 adults with chronic pain participated in an online survey, where over two-thirds reported comfort eating during pain flare-ups. The findings indicated that the primary function of this eating behavior is to provide a ‘pleasant experience’ (51.8%), followed closely by ‘distraction’ (49.6%) and ‘to reduce emotions’ (39%). These results underscore the prevalence of comfort eating in this population and suggest its potential implications for pain management strategies. The study advocates for further research into the relationship between comfort eating and chronic pain outcomes. [NPID: Pain, eating behavior, chronic pain, comfort eating, emotions]

Year: 2025

Reference: Roche, C., Burton, A., & Newton-John, T. (2025). Eating to feel better: The role of comfort eating in chronic pain. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, 32, 460–467. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10880-025-10064-6