Story perspectives

Healthy Labels Boost Eating, Lower Satisfaction, Study Finds

4/29/2026

Summary

Story summary

Labeling a food as healthy lowers satisfaction and increases calorie intake.
Stanford psychologist Alia Crum found that labeling a milkshake indulgent produced a ghrelin drop versus labeling it healthy.
University of Michigan psychologist Ashley Gearhardt notes that focusing on enjoyment rather than restriction helps avoid guilt after eating foods.
Research shows calling foods “light” or “low” triggers restraint mindset leading to overeating, Crum advising cues and emphasis on taste.

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Story summary

Labeling a food as healthy lowers satisfaction and increases calorie intake.
Stanford psychologist Alia Crum found that labeling a milkshake indulgent produced a ghrelin drop versus labeling it healthy.
University of Michigan psychologist Ashley Gearhardt notes that focusing on enjoyment rather than restriction helps avoid guilt after eating foods.
Research shows calling foods “light” or “low” triggers restraint mindset leading to overeating, Crum advising cues and emphasis on taste.