Reading - Extra Dessert Day

Read the text and complete the activities below.

Did you know that September 4th is celebrated by sweet lovers around the world as Extra Dessert Day? On this unofficial holiday, people are encouraged to ignore their usual diet rules for a day and treat themselves to an extra slice of cake, a second scoop of ice cream, or a special pastry. While nobody knows exactly who created the holiday, it has quickly gained popularity on social media, where bakeries and home cooks share photos of their most delicious and indulgent treats.

For many people, desserts are connected to comfort, celebration, and happy memories from childhood. Psychologists suggest that enjoying sweet food in moderation can boost our mood and create a sense of reward after a busy week. Many families use Extra Dessert Day as an excuse to bake together, try complex new recipes, or visit a local bakery they have never tried before. It is not just about eating sugar, but also about enjoying a simple life pleasure with friends and family.

However, health experts remind us that balance is key when celebrating such occasions. While indulging once in a while is completely fine, making every day an "extra dessert day" can lead to health problems. To solve this, many bakeries now offer healthier alternatives, such as fruit-based desserts, low-sugar cakes, or vegan options. This way, everyone can participate in the fun without feeling guilty about their choice.

ACTIVITIES

Exercise 1: Multiple Choice

Choose the correct option for each question.

1. When is Extra Dessert Day celebrated?

a) September 14th b) September 4th c) August 4th d) October 4th

2. According to the text, who started Extra Dessert Day?

a) Famous pastry chefs b) Social media influencers c) Health experts d) Nobody knows for sure

3. Why do many people enjoy desserts according to the second paragraph?

a) They are cheap to buy. b) They are good for losing weight. c) They bring back happy memories and comfort. d) They contain essential daily vitamins.

4. How do some families celebrate this day?

a) By going on a strict diet b) By baking together or trying new recipes c) By closing local bakeries d) By exercising more than usual

5. How are bakeries helping people eat healthier on this day?

a) By offering lower prices b) By giving away free fruit c) By providing fruit-based, low-sugar, or vegan alternatives d) By stopping the production of chocolate cakes

Exercise 2: True, False, or Not Given

Choose True, False, or Not Given based on the text.

1. Extra Dessert Day is an official national holiday recognized by governments.

a) True b) False c) Not Given

2. Bakeries often use social media to share pictures of their treats on September 4th.

a) True b) False c) Not Given

3. Children buy more desserts on September 4th than adults do.

a) True b) False c) Not Given

4. According to psychologists, eating sweet food in moderation can improve your mood.

a) True b) False c) Not Given

5. Health experts believe people should avoid desserts entirely.

a) True b) False c) Not Given

Exercise 3: Gap Fill

Complete the sentences using the exact words from the box below. Type the words into the gaps.

moderation treat indulging guilty alternatives

1. On September 4th, people like to themselves to a second piece of cake.

2. Psychologists say that eating sweets in can boost your mood.

3. Health experts warn against in sugary foods too frequently.

4. Many bakeries offer fruit-based for health-conscious customers.

5. You can enjoy a sweet snack without feeling if you maintain a balanced diet.