The Optimistic Outlook with John Eades The Milkshake Study
Dec 22, 2025
Discover how a famous milkshake study reveals the profound impact of belief on our biology. Participants experienced different physiological responses based solely on their expectations. Learn how negative thoughts can skew outcomes and how to interrupt these patterns. A practical method to retrain your mindset encourages labeling old thoughts to foster optimism. This engaging discussion highlights the power of our minds in shaping not just feelings, but real-world results.
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The Milkshake Label Experiment
- Researchers gave participants the same milkshake twice but labeled them differently to create distinct expectations.
- Hormone responses differed based solely on whether the shake was called 140 calories or 650 calories.
Belief Shapes Biology
- Alia Crum's research shows the body reacts to the story the mind tells it.
- Expectations and beliefs can change physical hormone levels and outcomes.
Use A Phrase To Interrupt Negativity
- When a negative thought appears, tell yourself, "This is just an old setting in my mind."
- Use that phrase to create distance and interrupt automatic negative patterns.