Topic: Placebo Effect

A discussion on the "energy" transferred into food by those who prepare it suggests that a disgruntled employee might put "negative energy" into a meal. Conversely, asking for "extra love" on a sandwich is seen as a way to improve the experience. The segment also notes the increasing prevalence of "Hover-Around" motorized chairs in grocery stores as a visible indicator of the national obesity crisis.

The science behind the placebo effect is examined, noting that the name is Latin for "I shall please." Federal law requires new drugs to outperform placebos in clinical trials, which is often difficult because the mere anticipation of healing can trigger actual physiological immune responses and lower stress hormones in the body.