“When we’re ill, we often revert back to what feels comforting, holding and nurturing,” explains Hannah Abrahams, a chartered psychologist at The Soke. “There’s a desire to fulfil basic needs: to feel protected and warm.”

There’s of course an element of nostalgia, too. Research has shown that reminiscing about happy memories can lead to a temporary increase in positive emotions, helping to improve our mood and overall sense of wellbeing.

“These foods and activities can take us back psychologically to those times when we felt safe and connected,” agrees Baker. Our senses, including smell and taste, are key in awakening past memories, which explains why we may reach for a steaming bowl of chicken soup or bag of Quavers when we’re filled with cold. According to Baker, these nostalgic practices naturally act as a metaphorical comfort blanket, wrapping us in the warmth and the love that our inner child seeks.

When we do get ill, or even just a bit sad, it’s important that we don’t just soldier on like nothing has happened. Embrace rest and relaxation, whether that’s with plenty of sleep and a healthy, hearty meal or something more juvenile. As for me? I’ll be curled up with my can of Coke, eating my child dinner in peace.

Disney films and Heinz tomato soup: why do we regress to childlike behaviours when we’re ill?