Let's talk about cake for a minute

When was the last time you had a nice piece of cake? Was it at a celebration? Or maybe it was after a nice dinner out with family or friends? Whatever the event, you probably remember it really well, because it turns out that eating sweets is linked to episodic memories.

Most cakes are sweet (hopefully), and it is that sweetness that helps cement memories into your brain - the details, the people you were with, and other particulars around the event. This explains why you can probably remember the details of the conversation you had with your friends over a shared slice of cake at lunch four years ago, but can't remember the details of the phone call you participated in while eating lunch at your desk.

I just love the idea that the authors who originated this study were trying to research eating behaviors and patterns, but they ended up with the reason why we all like to have cake at birthday parties.

Obviously (and somewhat sadly), cake is not appropriate for every meal. But it is good information to keep in mind. If you want someone to remember something: Let them eat cake.

What is your favorite kind of cake? Tell me in the comments.