A recent study by Cornell University found that people who dine in relaxed environments eat less and feel happier. Researchers did a makeover of a fast-food restaurant by adding softer lighting and mellow music and then they observed the eating patterns of the customers. They discovered that the diners ate nearly 20 percent fewer calories and were more satisfied with the quality of the food. The results of the study, which were published in Psychological Reports, showed that while the tranquil atmosphere didn’t change what people actually ordered, it did lead them to reduce their caloric intake by 175 calories. In addition, the subjects rated their meals as more enjoyable.
