What’s it “Aawww” About?

Last Updated on April 13, 2017 by Marie Bautista

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Can’t stop yourself from going all mushy when you see a kitten’s innocent wide eyes or a baby’s chubby little cheeks?  There may be more behind your gushing than you realize.

It is not news that we ladies are charmed by anything that reminds us of infant characteristics, from dimples to Hello Kitty, thanks to our species’ evolutionary need to protect our young.  We’re hardwired to adore “cute” cues to ensure that babies and children get the help they need to survive.

But recent research has discovered that it’s not just our nurturing response that makes us love those warm fuzzies. Looking at cute stimuli may give us a buzz similar to that set off by chocolate.

So next time you are feeling down, don’t snuggle up to a candy bar, try a kitten instead.