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 following questions.
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. Under acute stress, the brain requires some 12 percent more energy, prompting many to gravitate towards sugary snacks.
Carbohydrates provide the body with the quickest source of energy. In fact, in cognitive tests subjects who were stressed performed poorly prior to eating. Their performance, however, went back to normal after consuming carbohydrates.
The regulation of hunger involves several brain regions that control metabolism and feeding behaviour. One key structure acts as a kind of gatekeeper. When this region registers that the brain lacks glucose, it limits signals from the rest of the body. 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.
To explore the relationship between stress and eating behaviour, researchers conducted an experiment with 40 participants. In one session, the participants delivered a ten-minute speech in front of strangers. In another session, they did not have to speak. After each session, scientists measured levels of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline and then provided a food buffet. 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.
In everyday life, cravings for sweet foods may also have a physiological explanation. 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. Studies also suggest that people who experienced high levels of stress in childhood may develop stronger preferences for sweets later in life.
For some people, especially those under long-term stress, cravings for sweets may not be a lack of self-control. Instead, they may reflect the brain’s need for energy. Reducing stress may be the key to healthier eating habits.
Question 6. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a reason for sugary food cravings?
A. The brain requires additional energy during periods of stress.
B. The brain relies heavily on glucose as its primary fuel.
C. The body may completely exhaust its internal energy reserves.
D. Carbohydrates serve as a rapid source of energy for the body.
