Oh, subconscious...

So apparently when ordering food, if salad is an option you're actually three times more likely to order french fries instead than you would if salad were left off the menu. Not only that, but the test subjects who scored the highest on a standard self-control test actually were among the MOST likely to order fries if salad was offered. Weird, huh?

The researchers hypothesize that it's because even seeing salad on the menu lowers your guard, leaving you more susceptible to indulgent behavior. FTA:

In one study, college students were given one of two menus. One menu featured French fries, chicken nuggets and a baked potato; the other included those same items as well as a salad. The French fries, widely perceived as the least healthful option, were three times as popular with students selecting from the menu that had the salad as they were with the other group.

Oh wait, college students? Thaaaaat explains it.

(via Lifehacker and NYTimes)