Samantha Boardman. More power every day (№ 466056)

There is no barrier between our mental and physical states. Feeling hungry makes us irritable. Researchers analyzed parole hearings for inmates and found that judges were less likely to grant parole just before lunch—compared to the afternoon. In fact, the percentage of favorable decisions dropped from 65 percent immediately after breakfast to virtually zero before lunch, and then jumped again to 65 after the lunch break. An empty stomach affected even experienced judges. The decision to grant parole requires serious thought and consideration. When judges were tired, they were more likely to deny parole because denial required less effort. Alas, the old adage “justice is what the judge had for breakfast” rings true in the courtroom... and probably in the office, the bedroom, and in line at the grocery store.