Drinks & Food
Donuts and mental health – why they’re good for you
We’re always waiting to hear that science has made a breakthrough and discovered that an unlimited amount of sweet treats are actually good for our health.
Well, some good news – that’s almost true.
From our own studies (and by ‘studies’ we mean, asking people how amazing they felt while eating a donut), we’ve determined that these delicious treats are in fact beneficial.
Read on to discover how exactly a donut covered in choc sprinkles, topped with caramel icing or filled with smooth custard is just what you need.
What are the benefits of eating donuts?
If you’ve ever tried a donut, you’ll be familiar with the instant hit of happiness it brings.
The benefit of sinking your teeth into one of these fluffy dough pastries is next level. And just in case you needed an excuse to go and grab your own Starbucks donut, we’ve made a list of the top benefits you can get from eating one. Or two.
Donuts and mental health – sweet self-care
Did you know the humble ring-shaped dessert has SO many benefits for your mental health?
Firstly, they’re the perfect pick-me-up. Presentation at work didn’t go well? Donut. Friend cancelled plans last-minute? Donut. Missed the bus? You guessed it… donut. It’s just about impossible to feel sad or frustrated when one of these impeccable treats is melting on your tongue.
Next, social connection. The only thing better than one donut is two. Spread the joy of donuts by enjoying one with a friend or loved one. If you’re looking for a cosy place to catch up, grab a spot at your local Starbucks and indulge in a Choc Sprinkle Donut. Then enjoy all the happy feelings that come from spending time with your bestie and getting a hit of this sweet, icing-topped baked bundle of dough.
Lastly, donuts are the perfect excuse for a mental health break. When you’ve been slogging away at the same project for hours or glued to your desk for too long, a donut is your opportunity to stop and enjoy a mental health break. Practise mindfulness with each bite, noticing how the texture of the icing perfectly complements the dough and how all the flavours dance on your tongue.
Which sweet treat to pick?
Okay, you’re convinced. Donuts are the best food for mental health when you need an afternoon pick-me-up or something sweet to look forward to.
Now comes the tough part – choosing which donut to bite into…
The flavoursome Vanilla Shortbread Donut
You’ve heard of shortbread and you’ve heard of donuts, but have you ever come across the perfect fusion of the two? Shaped like a donut and infused with the buttery flavours of a classic dessert biscuit, the Vanilla Shortbread Donut shows you really can have the best of both worlds. This delicious treat is only available for a limited time, so don’t hesitate to try it.
The mouthwatering Caramel Iced Donut
If you love caramel, you’re about to lose your mind in the best way possible. We’ve topped the classic ring donut with a scrumptious caramel icing AND a drizzle of chocolate. Just reading that is sure to make your serotonin levels soar. While it’s the perfect treat for life on the go, we get the feeling you’ll want to sit down to savour this one properly. Luckily, your nearest Starbucks is the perfect spot to do just that!
The tempting Choc Sprinkle Donut
Starbucks®’ Choc Sprinkle Donut takes classic to new heights. Enjoy the humble ring donut you know and love, coated in a rich chocolate icing for an added mood booster. In true donut form, the sprinkles on top complete the masterpiece. Joyous and delicious, the Choc Sprinkle is an underdog on our donut menu.
The appetising Galaxy Filled Donut
The name probably gives it away, but as far as flavour and texture go, the Galaxy Filled Donut is out of this world. It’s full in the centre, flipping the standard donut on its head. And there’s good reason – inside, a smooth custard filling awaits. On top, you’ll find more delicious icing and a sprinkle of galaxy dust. From your first bite to your last, you’ll be in pure heaven. And if that’s not good for your mental health, we don’t know what is!
Donuts make everything better
Picture this. You’ve had a hard day at school, work or uni, and every hour feels like it’s taking four years to pass.
Suddenly, you remember you bought a Caramel Iced Donut for yourself this morning at Starbucks. Immediately, your mood lifts.
Or, maybe you’ve hit the afternoon slump, want a post-gym energy boost, or simply need a mental health break. Head to the nearest Starbucks store, because the doughy deliciousness that is a donut is calling you from the glass display.
All desserts make us happy
Okay, so we may have glazed over the facts about how donuts are the best food for good mental health. But honestly, who isn’t instantly happier when they think of this rounded, fluffy snack?
But they’re not the only joy-inducing items on the menu. Check out our wider selection of sweet treats, including slices, tarts, cookies, macarons and more!
At least one of those is sure to put some pep in your step and make the sun shine a little brighter. (Especially when shared in-store with a friend!)
So head to your local Starbucks store to try our sweet treats or delicious donuts. Or, order yours via the Starbucks® Rewards app today.