A recent study shows that people living on the continent of North America suffer 9 times more chronic fatigue and 31 times more chronic depression than do people living on the continent of Asia. Interestingly, Asians, on average, eat 20 grams of soy per day, whereas North Americans eat virtually none. It turns out that soy contains phytochemicals called isoflavones, which have been found to possess disease–preventing properties. Thus, North Americans should consider eating soy on a regular basis as a way of preventing fatigue and depression.

Chronic fatigue and chronic depression are the most commonly encountered diseases all over the world. But apparently they are not that wide spread in Asia as it is in North America according to the figures provided. As the writer mentions that people suffering from chronic fatigue in North America are nine times the people suffering from it in Asia. Asia is the biggest and the most densely populated continent of all. Hence it’s clear that many people are suffering from it in North America. Asia’s major countries are India and China, both the countries are major agro based economies, we can say that most people are into farming. Being a farmer a lot of physical labor is involved hence the physical fitness increases. In North America this is not the case fewer people are involved in physical labor, hence lower level of fitness. Chronic Fatigue will definitely be there in later stages if physical labor (Exercise) is not done at young age.

The second chronic mentioned is depression which is much more perilous, mental torture is worse than physical torture. Physical fitness and mental stability are interdependent if one goes down it will take the other down too. Noticing the mindboggling figures stated by the writer, there are 31times more people suffering from depression in North America than people in Asia. The reason behind it could be many, few of them might be lack of physical fitness, work pressure etc. The only way it can be taken care of is mending the weak link. Why less people in Asia are affected by depression? Most people in Asia still live in villages and are evolved in lesser mental pressure, but if people from the cities are taken into account then most of the cases of depression will be encountered here.

The writer fails to mention the age group in which the diseases were observed, the phenomenon of fatigue could be more prominent in older ages than in young and middle aged people. This would take place because in later stages the body becomes weak, hence fatigue. The depression can happen to anyone if not able to bear the metal stress.

What you eat? Where do you eat? When you eat? Are the most vital questions which control the health of a person. Writer specifies that the Asians tend to eat 20gms of soy per day where as Americans have none. Soy has phytochemicals called isoflavones , which have disease preventing properties. Americans should try and include this in their daily diet plan in order to improve their health. Keeping one’s self healthy, physically as well as mentally must be of highest priority.