Tag: Sensory grounding

According to research on dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), intense sensory experiences can be used as a grounding technique to manage distress. This method, which has been popularized on platforms like TikTok, raises the question: does sour food help with stress in a meaningful way beyond just a momentary jolt?

According to the Anxiety & Depression Association of America, over 40 million adults in the U.S. are affected by an anxiety disorder in a given year. In moments of intense distress, some people turn to an unconventional and temporary tool: candy.

Sour candy's intense, mouth-puckering flavor has a physiological basis, as the acids within trigger special taste receptors on the tongue. This potent sensory experience is what gives sour candy its signature kick, but it can also provide unexpected psychological and physical effects. While typically viewed as a sugary indulgence, some people use sour candy for purposes beyond satisfying a craving, from managing nausea to practicing sensory grounding.

While Sour Patch Kids are a popular candy, a closer look at their ingredients reveals they offer virtually no traditional health benefits. The notion that a highly processed sugar candy could be considered 'healthy' is largely a myth, though some very specific, non-nutritional uses have been noted in certain contexts. This article will delve into these claims to provide a balanced perspective on one of the most recognizable sour-then-sweet treats.