Reading: Gap Fill - 2023 őszi

Sugar consumption in developed countries has been steadily (0) ____________ . This could be happening for a number of reasons, such as a shift in tastes and lifestyles, with the popularity of low-carbohydrate diets increasing in the past decade. A greater (15) ____________ of eating too much sugar on our health may also be among the reasons. Reducing sugar intake has clear health benefits, (16) ____________ , which can help with weight loss and improved dental health. But people sometimes report negative side effects when they try to eat less sugar, like (17) ____________ . The reason for these side effects is currently poorly understood. But it's likely these symptoms relate to how the brain reacts when exposed to sugary foods. As mass production of food has become the norm, sugar is now (18) ____________ to make them more tasty. However, sugar has profound biological effects in the brain. It activates sweet taste receptors in the mouth, which leads to the release of a chemical called dopamine in the brain – also known as the "feel-good" hormone. It's obvious that sugar can have a powerful effect on us. That's why it's not (19) ____________ when we eat less sugar or remove it from our diet completely. It's during this early "sugar withdrawal" stage that both mental and physical symptoms have been reported – including depression, anxiety, headaches, and dizziness. That's why (20) ____________ , which may make it difficult for some to stick with the diet change. If you want to reduce sugar from your diet long term, (21) ____________ the first few difficult weeks is crucial. It's important to also acknowledge, however, that sugar isn't "bad" in itself – but that it should be eaten in moderation alongside a healthy diet. And that with any dietary change, (22) ____________ .