What is a "sugar pill"?

[FitFossil]

I know a sugar pill is a placebo, but does it actually contain sugar?

I was wondering about that study saying a sugar pill was almost as effective as anti-depressants. I was thinking if a sugar pill actually contains sugar, then it would make sense, since sugar is a carb and carbs produce serotonin. Anti-depressants, specifically SSRI's, inhibit the brain from reabsorbing too much serotonin, making the person feel less depressed. Depressed people commonly try to "medicate" themselves with sweet carby food for the serotonin affect. So if a sugar pill really does contain sugar, did this study tell us anything we didn't already know?

 

[The Shadow]

LOL

Good point - I think most contain Methyl Cellulose....even it they contained "sugar" the amount would be insufficient to elicit an insulin response etc....just a few mg.

 

[Gladiola]

even it they contained "sugar" the amount would be insufficient to elicit an insulin response etc....just a few mg.

I would agree - just picturing how small a pill is - even large pills aren't even 1/4 of 1 teaspoon of sugar - & 1 teaspoon of sugar has 15 cals. Hardly comparable to a binge of 2-3 cream filled donuts (a "medication" I have used in the past) - for a whopping grand total of 1080 cals (Krispy kreme brand).