The right snack can boost your mood.  Dr. Alan Hirsch, Director of the Smell and Taste Research Foundation, says that 90% of taste is small, which makes scent a potent part of the soothing power of comfort foods.  If you're feeling down, pick a food from the list below; and cheer up!

VANILLA RELAXES:  One of the most popular fragrances in the world, vanilla has been shown in tests to reduce anxiety by altering brain-wave patterns.

GRAPEFRUIT ENERGIZES:  The citrusy smell of grapefruit can give you a lift and help you stay on a diet by causing the brain to release chemicals that curb hunger.

SPICE EXCITES:  Add spice to your day!  Both cinnamon and cloves provoke trigeminal responses in the brain and can snap you out of a funk.

CUCUMBER DESTRESSES:  Dr. Hirsch credits cucumber's crisp scent for the ability to reduce tension and stress levels in claustrophobic situations.

PEPPERMINT PEPS YOU UP:  Pick yourself up with peppermint. Studies show its smell stimulates brain waves that leave you more awake and alert.

STRAWBERRIES STIMULATE:  luscious, sensuous strawberries give off the sun-kissed scent of summer, and stimulates your brain to remember happy times.

GREEN APPLE SOOTHES:  Tart and tempting, the smell of green apples soothes. Set out a bowlful, so their scent can fill the entire house.

CHOCOLATE EQUALS HAPPY MEMORIES:  Because chocolate is often given as a reward or eaten at celebrations, its cent can leave you feeling warm and fuzzy!

BUTTERED POPCORN BOOSTS ENERGY:  Be the star of a blockbuster day with popcorn!  Test groups had more energy when they got a whiff of this treat.

We hope you have enjoyed "The comforting smell of food" -- now go enjoy!