Air fryer expert claims beloved kitchen appliance can 'heighten arousal'

They're one of the most popular modern blending with ease, and offering healthy results. But could your trusty also reawaken something other than your taste buds?

This is according to one expert, who swears with an air fryer can lead to "a heightened state of arousal", unlike any other method of preparing meals. Definitely food for thought for those looking for a bit more sizzle in their lives as the heats up.

From oysters to strawberries, culinary delights have long been linked to bodily excitement beyond mere taste. The potential thrill of preparing the in question has traditionally prompted less discussion. So what is it exactly about these nifty ovens that is leaving users weak at the knees, and is there any science behind these so-called "air fryer flutters"?

READ MORE:

According to Dr. Eleanor Bryant, Associate Professor of Health & Eating Psychology at the University of Bradford, even the act of anticipating a tasty meal can activate your brain's reward system like nothing else. Dr Bryant explained: “When we anticipate eating delicious food, our brain floods our neural pathways with feel-good chemicals.

“We're seeing a heightened state of arousal due to the combination of novelty, speed, and ease of cooking, which can be enhanced with using an airfryer.”

And even before you take a single bite, your body will start to respond in all sorts of intriguing ways. This delicious sense of anticipation kickstarts a range of thrilling biological reactions, including the release of the "feel-good" motivator chemical, dopamine, as well as the activation of parts of your brain that control emotions and cognition.

You'll find that your heart rate increases, while your digestive system will kick into action, ready for whatever scrumptious recipe you're whipping up.

Although the sensation of anticipating a good meal is as old as time itself, the "air fryer flutters" is apparently a unique phenomenon on account of the irresistible combo of speed, pride and health benefits. Dr. Bryant continued: “When using an air fryer you’re not just looking forward to something tasty - you're doing it quickly, healthily, and often with a sense of pride. That's a powerful mix.”

These flutters are supported by recent findings published in the Journal of Food Nutrition and Gastronomy, which concluded that households across the experience a specific type of joy, pride, and excitement linked with using air fryers.

Dr. Bryant concluded: “Fundamentally, our brains love variety, novelty and simplicity, especially when it leads to positive outcomes. Using an airfryer makes people feel like they’re winning at food - making healthier choices that still feel indulgent. That creates a feedback loop: the more you enjoy the process, the more likely you are to repeat it.

“The uplifting combination of taste, anticipation and reward prompts a genuine biological thrill that only airfryers can provide.”

Meanwhile, Sara Vaum, Senior Product Manager at Philips said: “As the inventor of the airfryer we’ve always been immensely proud of how much people have come to love and cherish our innovation.

“Families tell us time and time again how excited and delighted they are when it comes to using their air fryers at meal times. So, we’re delighted to be able to christen this phenomenon the 'airfryer flutters'.

“Our Series 5000 Airfryer and Steamer combines traditional airfryer , with a unique steam fry function - meaning families aren’t just getting a crispy, juicy, perfect meal at their fingertips in a matter of minutes - but a thrilling one too.”

Do you have a story to share? Email me at julia.banim@reachplc.com

READ MORE: