Crime and Nourishment! The best takeaways to pair with TV genres, according to science

With Storm Ciaran set to batter much of Britain this weekend, many Brits will be looking forward to curling up on the sofa with a delicious takeaway.

But if you’re having trouble deciding what to order, you’ll be relieved to know that help is at hand.

Nutritionist Rob Hobson has teamed up with Freeview to reveal the best takeaways to order depending on what you plan to watch.

His findings suggest that Brits looking to delve into a comedy should opt for sushi, while those watching a sci-fi blockbuster should order a Chinese takeaway.

‘Research has shown that certain nutrients can help support your mood. That’s why I’ve linked your favorite takeaway to the type of TV you watch, so you can really enhance the viewing experience,” said Hobson.

To create the combinations, Mr Hobson first examined the composition of five popular takeaway meals: Mexican, sushi, Indian, Italian and Chinese.

He then identified which dishes best enhance the viewing experience of different types of TV shows.

His findings suggest romances are best enjoyed with a spicy Mexican takeaway.

Previous studies have shown that the pain caused by eating spicy foods leads to the release of endorphins, which provide a feeling of happiness and well-being.

Meanwhile, guacamole contains high levels of magnesium, which plays a key role in brain function and mood.

“Watching TV is a multi-sensory experience, just like enjoying a good plate of food,” Mr Hobson added.

If it’s a comedy you want to see this weekend, Mr. Hobson suggests ordering a sushi feast.

With Storm Ciaran set to batter much of Britain this weekend, many Brits will be looking forward to curling up on the sofa with a delicious takeaway

Whether it’s a maki roll with salmon, edamame beans or beef tataki, Japanese food contains high levels of tryptophan and vitamin B6.

Studies have shown that these chemicals increase your serotonin levels, which improves your mood and reduces stress while you enjoy comedy.

According to Hobson, crime thrillers are best enjoyed with an Indian takeaway.

Popular dishes like Lentil Daal and Chicken Tikka Masala contain anti-inflammatory spices like ginger and fennel, while Aloo Gobi is packed with potassium, which has been shown to lower your blood pressure – great if you’re trying to stay calm during intense scenes!

Essential for any Indian takeaway, Mr Hobson also notes that plain rice is ‘easily digested for anxious stomachs’.

If you’re craving pizza or pasta, you’ll have to tune into some drama.

According to Mr Hobson, Italian food contains high levels of omega 3 and antioxidants, which can help you concentrate during a drama.

Finally, science fiction choices go best with a Chinese takeaway, the expert said.

Dishes such as sesame chicken, fried rice with eggs and tofu with salt and pepper are full of it focus-enhancing omega 3, choline for memory and concentration, and B vitamins for brain health, so you don’t lose track of a tricky plot.

Mr Hobson’s suggestions come as Freeview revealed the average Briton spends 15 minutes considering which takeaway to order.

The survey of 2,000 people also found that the average person spends 12 minutes every day choosing what to watch next on TV.

‘In addition, it is clear that the nation is finding it difficult to make quick decisions when it comes to social evenings,’ says Freeview, as 43% report that choosing takeaways has led to arguments.

Freeview is now launching a competition where two winners will get a £150 Deliveroo voucher to share with a friend.

The competition runs until Thursday 9 December and you can participate here.

WHAT ARE THE VIDEO STREAMING OPTIONS AVAILABLE TO UK CUSTOMERS?

Netflix

Price: £4.99 per month (with ads) OR £10.99/month for Standard OR £17.99/month for Premium

Hit shows:

Amazon Prime

Price: £8.99 per month OR £95 per year

Hit shows:

• Jack Ryan by Tom Clancy
• The boys

AppleTV+

Price: £6.99 per month

Hit shows:

• Ted Lasso
• For all humanity

Disney+

Price: £4.99 per month (with ads) OR £7.99/month for Standard OR £10.99/month for Premium

Hit shows:

• The Mandalorian
• The Simpsons

NOW television

Price: From €6.99 per month (6 months) or €9.99 (flexible)

Hit shows:

• Game of Thrones
• Chernobyl

Hi

Price: £4.99 per month

Hit shows:

• Keeping up with the Kardashians
• Made in Chelsea

BritBox

Price: £5.99 per month OR £59.99 per year

Hit shows:

• Spitting image
• Midsomer murders

Prices are correct as of September 2023