Intermediate english reading

Exercise 2.2 
Understanding vocabulary Choose two words or phrases from the following list as 
synonyms of each numbered item below: 

---

8 | 
P a g e
 
 
 
Exercise 2.3 
 

---

9 | 
P a g e
 
 
 
 
Exercise 2.4 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

---

10 | 
P a g e
 
UNIT 3 
READING COMPREHENSION 2
 
Reading Text
You are what you eat, say scientists 
Scientists have cast new light on the effects our diet has on our mental health. 
Researchers say what we eat affects and alters our brain chemistry up until the age of 30. 
They say this explains why older adults are more emotionally stable and resilient than under-
30s. The research was conducted by a team led by Lina Begdache, a professor of health and 
wellness studies. Researchers said that while the link between our diet and diabetes, heart 
disease and obesity is well established, there is a paucity of research on the influence our 
dietary intake has on mental health. The researchers also suggested that mental well-being 
stimulated healthy eating, healthy practices, and exercising. 
The research was carried out via an anonymous internet-based survey. It was sent 
through social media platforms to different professional and social group networks. Professor 
Begdache found that adults under 30 who ate fast food more than three times a week scored 
higher on levels of mental distress, anxiety and depression. She said that for adults over 30, 
the study found that eating less carbohydrates and more fruit reduced anxiety and 
depression. Begdache pointed to research showing how a Mediterranean diet was as good for 
our brain as for our body. She said: "It has all the components that are important for the 
healthy structure of the brain."