四、閱讀測驗
For many years, stress has been perceived as a possible cause of illness. Now some health experts have begun
to look into the positive effects that stressful activity can have on people.
It has been observed that patients report feelings of greater well-being after completing stressful tasks that
have been set for them by their doctors. It is believed that such mildly stressful activities— organizing the children
to go on vacation, preparing for a dinner party in just one afternoon— can improve our health and help to protect us
from illness such as heart disease.
New research supports these views. When we are forced to carry out a task under pressure, the stress caused
can damage cells in both our brain and body. The cells react to this “attack” by producing proteins to repair
themselves. Through this process of self-repair, cells become stronger and more resistant to future stress and even
disease.
The reason for investigating “stress therapy” was the observation that, as we get older, the body becomes
increasingly less efficient. That’s why the body needs to be continually put under low levels of stress, to stimulate
the mind and body. However, it is important that this is the right kind of stress. Short-term stress is beneficial as
long as it is not too intense and will give a sense of achievement, like that gained by completing a task like putting
together furniture following the instruction manual. Long-term stress can be harmful as it is often associated with
situations for which there is no easy solution.
【題組】48. According to the article, what should people do when they grow older?
(A)They need to eat food with protein.
(B)Exercise more makes them stronger.
(C)They need to go to bed early.
(D)Mild stress makes them healthy.