The paragraph following the passage will likely talk about .... (SOAL SBMPTN REFERENSI2021)

Question

Most people know that eating too much dessert and processed food can contribute to physical health problems like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Far less attention has been given to the impact of a high-sugar diet on mental health though numerous studies have shown the deleterious effects a sweet tooth can have on mood, learning, and quality of life. In addition to inflating waistlines, sugar and other sweeteners may contribute to a number of mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.

The roller coaster of high blood sugar followed by a crash may accentuate the symptoms of mood disorders. Research had tied heavy sugar consumption to an increased risk of depression and worse outcomes in individuals with schizophrenia. There are a couple of theories explaining the link. Sugar suppresses activities of a hormone called BDNF that is low in individuals with depression and schizophrenia. Sugar is also at the root of chronic inflammation, which impacts the immune system, the brain, and other systems in the body and also has been implicated in depression. Interestingly, countries with high sugar intake also have a high rate of depression.

The Standard American Diet, which is full of sugar and fat does not necessarily cause anxiety but it does appear to worsen anxiety symptoms and impair the body's ability to cope with stress. Individuals who suffer from panic attacks, for example, are hyper-alert to signs of impending danger. Sugar can cause blurry vision, difficulty in thinking, and fatigue, all of which may be interpreted as signs of a panic attack, thereby increasing worry and fear. A sugar high and subsequent crash can cause shaking and tension, which can make anxiety worse.

Research has established a correlation between sugar intake and anxiety. In a 2008 study, rats that binged on sugar and then fasted displayed anxiety, and in a 2009 study rats fed sucrose compared to high-antioxidant honey were more likely to suffer anxiety. While dietary changes alone cannot cure anxiety, they can minimize symptoms, boost energy, and improve the body's ability to cope with stress.