'Giving in to temptation may be good for you'

A study of British women found that those who gave in to temptation on a regular basis were much happier than those who restrained themselves.

The researchers said that self-regulation makes people more inclined to feel dissatisfied -- proving the old adage that a little of what you fancy really does do you good, the Daily Mail reported.

Those who took part in the survey for a food company said shopping over the budget, sweet treats and browsing the Internet at work as their favourite pick-me-ups.

Neuroscientist Dr Jack Lewis, who led the study, said: "There is a body of evidence suggesting that resisting temptation actually makes us angry."

"Most things are fine in moderation, and giving in to our relatively innocent urges – particularly when times are tough -- is a great way to reward ourselves."

The survey of 2,000 women by OnePoll for 'Gu Puds' found that almost 90 per cent gave in to urges at least some of the time, while almost 60 per cent did so once a day.

Of those who indulged daily, around two thirds reported feeling guilty for hours afterwards, Dr Lewis said and added that women needed to learn how to enjoy a treat without letting the guilt spoil it.