MÔN THI: TIẾNG ANH (Questions 23 - 30)
Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the best answer to each of the questions.[cite: 1]
[P1] Although our brain accounts for just 2 percent of our body weight, the organ consumes half of our daily carbohydrate requirements — and glucose is its most important fuel[cite: 1]. Under acute stress, the brain requires some 12 percent more energy, prompting many to gravitate towards sugary snacks[cite: 1].
[P2] Carbohydrates provide the body with the quickest source of energy[cite: 1]. In fact, in cognitive tests subjects who were stressed performed poorly prior to eating[cite: 1]. Their performance, however, went back to normal after consuming carbohydrates[cite: 1].
[P3] The regulation of hunger involves several brain regions that control metabolism and feeding behaviour[cite: 1]. One key structure acts as a kind of gatekeeper[cite: 1]. When this region registers that the brain lacks glucose, it limits signals from the rest of the body[cite: 1]. As a result, people often turn to carbohydrates as soon as the brain signals a need for energy, even if the body still has sufficient reserves[cite: 1].
[P4] To explore the relationship between stress and eating behaviour, researchers conducted an experiment with 40 participants[cite: 1]. In one session, the participants delivered a ten-minute speech in front of strangers[cite: 1]. In another session, they did not have to speak[cite: 1]. After each session, scientists measured levels of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline and then provided a food buffet[cite: 1]. When the participants gave a speech before the buffet, they were more stressed, and on average consumed an additional 34 grams of carbohydrates, than when they did not give a speech[cite: 1].
[P5] In everyday life, cravings for sweet foods may also have a physiological explanation[cite: 1]. When the brain lacks energy, it may increase the production of stress hormones, which over time can raise the risk of heart disease, stroke, or depression[cite: 1]. Studies also suggest that people who experienced high levels of stress in childhood may develop stronger preferences for sweets later in life[cite: 1].
[P6] For some people, especially those under long-term stress, cravings for sweets may not be a lack of self-control[cite: 1]. Instead, they may reflect the brain’s need for energy[cite: 1]. Reducing stress may be the key to healthier eating habits[cite: 1].