It is becoming increasingly clear that expectations and predictions have a very powerful influence on basic experiences, how we feel, and what we perceive. Doing anything that you believe will help you feel better will probably help you feel better.
–Dr. Leonie Koban, Ph.D., Neuroscience and Affective Sciences, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center
What is the Belief Effect?
The Belief Effect occurs when patients’ expectations and beliefs play a significant role in determining health outcomes. It mimics the brain’s capacity to produce actual physiological responses in the absence of any active treatment or intervention.
Beliefs and attitudes can influence the release of neurotransmitters, hormones, and immune system responses, all of which can affect the functioning of the body.
scientific evidence
Numerous studies detail the complex relationship between faith, nutrition, and health, shedding light on how our cognitive processes can significantly impact our well-being. How else might the Belief Effect play an important role in shaping our dietary choices and health outcomes?
How do your beliefs shape nutritional health?
Ghrelin Response
In a study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine, researchers examined the effect of expectation on the hunger hormone ghrelin.
Participants were given identical milkshakes, but were told that one was a “decadent pleasure” and the other was a “sensible, low-calorie choice.”
Remarkably, those who believed they consumed the indulgent shake showed a more significant increase in ghrelin levels or an increase in feelings of hunger or dissatisfaction with food, even though both shakes had the same nutritional content. ” felt less hungry or had lower ghrelin levels.
Taste perception
A study published in the journal Appetite explored the relationship between food health beliefs and taste perception. Participants were presented with the same food items but were led to believe that one was healthier than the other.
The results showed that individuals who believed the food was healthier rated it as more delicious; This reveals the effect of belief on taste perception. A person’s belief, or how he interprets it (presents it or represents it internally), directly governs the biological response or behavior.
Another notable study involved a woman who suffered from split personalities. In his initial personality, his blood sugar levels were normal. But the moment he believed he was diabetic, his entire physiology changed to that of a diabetic, including high blood sugar levels.
Diet and nutrition
Belief in the effectiveness of a particular diet can have a profound impact on diet adherence and results. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) investigated the impact of belief on weight loss.
Participants with strong beliefs about the effectiveness of a particular diet were more likely to adhere to it and experience better weight loss results than those with less belief. (This is something I personally have to subscribe to; I usually stick with a new diet regimen for about a week before I go off track.)
The belief effect also extends to nutrient absorption. Research has shown that believing you are consuming a nutrient-rich meal can increase your body’s ability to absorb those nutrients. Your belief in the nutritional value of a food can affect how efficiently your body extracts vitamins and minerals.
metabolic response
Our metabolic response to various foods can be influenced by our belief that they are healthy. A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine investigated the effect of belief on postprandial metabolic markers. Participants who believed they were consuming a healthy meal exhibited more positive metabolic responses, including increased insulin sensitivity, compared to those who believed the meal was unhealthy. It’s amazing what the mind can do!
There is also a special podcast on the connections between neuroscience and human behavior: Neuroscientist Dr. The Huberman Lab podcast, hosted by Andrew Huberman, explores topics related to the impact of beliefs on health.
In a recent episode, Dr. Huberman emphasized the vital importance of understanding how faith affects our overall well-being. In this episode about mindset and health, Dr. Huberman studies the impact of diet, which is actually a combined product of what you do, what you think, your stress, your anxiety—the interconnectedness of your mental and physical self.
The Faith Effect extends far beyond nutrition
Let’s briefly examine how the Belief Effect affects overall health.
Pain Management: Research has shown that individuals who believe they are taking a powerful painkiller but are actually taking a placebo often experience a decreased perception of pain. This demonstrates the brain’s ability to release endorphins and modulate pain signals based on belief alone.
Sanity: Belief in the effectiveness of psychotherapy or medication can significantly improve mental health outcomes. Positive expectations can lead to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Immune function: Belief can influence immune responses, affecting the body’s ability to fight infection and disease. Optimistic beliefs and positive attitudes have been associated with improved immune function.
Cardiovascular health: Belief in the benefits of lifestyle changes, such as exercise and dietary improvements, can lead to better cardiovascular outcomes, including lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
These studies provide strong evidence supporting the idea that belief can significantly influence nutrition and health outcomes. Recognizing the power of belief in shaping our dietary choices and metabolic responses highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health that includes both physical and psychological factors.