大学受験対策｜英語 長文読解問題36 難易度：★★☆☆☆

Many people love the comforting smell of freshly baked bread or the refreshing scent of ripe citrus fruit. These pleasant aromas do more than simply delight our noses; they also play an important role in how our bodies react to food. When we smell something tasty, our brain receives signals that can increase our appetite. For instance, if you walk past a bakery and catch the smell of warm pastries, you might suddenly feel hungry, even if you were not planning to eat.

Scientists have discovered that certain food aromas can improve our mood and help us feel more relaxed. One example is lavender, which has been linked to reduced stress and better sleep in some studies. However, not all scents have the same effect on everyone. Some people might find the smell of coffee energizing, while others may feel calm or experience little change at all.

In addition, these smells can prepare our digestive system for a meal. As soon as we detect a pleasant aroma, our mouth may produce more saliva, and our stomach can start releasing enzymes to help break down food. This process is important because it allows our body to handle nutrients more efficiently. Over time, paying attention to the effects of different aromas may help us make healthier choices. By exploring how scents influence our appetite, mood, and digestion, we can enjoy our meals more fully and discover new ways to care for our overall well-being.

Q1. What might happen when you notice an enticing food aroma?

1. You immediately ignore your current meal and walk away.
2. You calmly enjoy the smell without feeling any hunger.
3. You suddenly feel hungry, even if you were not before.
4. You choose to block out all fragrances around that area.

Q2. How might your body respond to pleasant scents before eating?

1. More saliva is produced, aiding digestion for incoming food.
2. Your appetite disappears, leading you to skip every meal.
3. Your heart rate drops, reducing cravings for heavier dishes.
4. Your vision brightens, but your sense of taste weakens drastically.

Q3. Which statement is NOT correctly supported by the reading passage?

1. Lovely scents can increase saliva and enzyme production for digestion.
2. Passing by fresh bread can trigger an unexpected hunger response.
3. Lavender’s fragrance may reduce stress and encourage better rest.
4. All pleasant food aromas affect everyone equally, without any differences.