Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is found in all types of food, ranging from konbu to packaged chips. There’s a popular misconception that MSG is particularly bad for your health. MSG is generally regarded as safe in moderation by the FDA and other expert organizations.
Is MSG harmful to your health?
MSG levels are high especially in foods such as tomatoes, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese. Thus, it is clear that MSG within the limit is not at all bad for your health. One of the findings concluded that MSG is safe, although in some, MSG, when consumed above 3 g, may induce symptoms such as headache or drowsiness.
How can MSG affect your body?
Beside its flavour enhancing effects, MSG has been associated with various forms of toxicity (Figure 1(Fig. 1)). MSG has been linked with obesity, metabolic disorders, Chinese Restaurant Syndrome, neurotoxic effects and detrimental effects on the reproductive organs.
Why is MSG so good?
MSG provides more flavor, with less sodium. Also, MSG amplifies and enhances the flavor of foods – whether it is naturally occurring or added to foods. The glutamate interacts with our taste buds, giving foods the umami, or savory, flavor. This could help manage blood pressure in people who are sodium sensitive.
Does MSG destroy brain cells?
When MSG enters the brain, not only does it kill brain cells, it wreaks havoc on brain functions. Many people react within 48 hours of ingesting MSG, even in minute amounts, which can make it difficult to trace back to the food source that caused the reaction.
What does MSG do to your stomach?
It is concluded that the stimulating effect of MSG on the basal secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach may be implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of acid-dependent diseases. An excessive consumption of MSG can cause a “Chinese Restaurant Syndrome” and gastritis, gastric and duodenal ulcers.
