The amount of MSG in each dish should not exceed 0.5 milligrams.
Core tip: How much MSG should be consumed per meal? In Western countries, MSG is only added to certain processed foods and is not normally consumed by the general public. It is even banned in baby food. Researchers suggest that no more than 0.5 milligrams should be added to each dish.
MSG is a well-known flavor enhancer. Adding a little MSG when cooking can enhance the flavor of dishes, so we tend to add a little MSG during the cooking process to make soups delicious and tasty. However, excessive intake of MSG can be very harmful to our bodies. Let's take a look at the specific harms it can cause to our bodies.
Japanese researchers believe that long-term excessive consumption of MSG may lead to retinal thinning, vision loss, and even blindness.
What are the harms of MSG?
First, the main component of MSG is sodium glutamate, which can break down into glutamate during digestion. The latter can be converted into an inhibitory neurotransmitter in brain tissue under the action of enzymes. Excessive intake can interfere with the natural function of the nervous system. Therefore, some people with sensitive constitutions may experience a series of symptoms after consuming excessive MSG, such as dizziness, headache, drowsiness, muscle spasms, and even shock. Some may also become agitated and anxious.
Second, when too much MSG is consumed, the excess inhibitory neurotransmitters can also inhibit the secretion of thyrotropin-releasing hormone by the hypothalamus, hindering bone development. This effect is particularly significant in children. Animal experiments have found that young mice and chicks are the most severely affected by MSG, which can damage brain and optic nerves.
Third, when excessive MSG is consumed beyond the body's metabolic capacity, it can lead to an increase in glutamate levels in the blood, limiting the body's use of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and copper. In particular, glutamate can bind with zinc in the blood to form glutamate zinc, which cannot be utilized and is excreted, leading to zinc deficiency. Zinc is an important nutrient for the physical and intellectual development of infants and young children. Therefore, infants, young children, and nursing mothers should avoid or consume less MSG.
Fourth, consuming too much MSG often leads to thirst because MSG contains sodium. Since MSG is not salty, it is easy to overconsume without noticing. People over 60 are particularly sensitive to sodium intake. Therefore, the elderly and people with high blood pressure, kidney disease, edema, and other conditions should especially limit their MSG intake.
So, how much MSG should we consume to avoid harming our bodies?
How much MSG is appropriate per meal? In Western countries, MSG is only added to certain processed foods and is not normally consumed by the general public. It is even banned in baby food because scientific research has found that MSG is particularly harmful to the development of the brain and optic nerves in young children. Researchers suggest that no more than 0.5 milligrams should be added to each dish. The severity of MSG's side effects varies depending on individual physique, so it should not be consumed excessively or for long periods.
In summary: MSG is a good flavor enhancer, which is why it is popular in both home cooking and restaurants. However, when eating out, be aware that to attract customers and enhance the flavor of dishes, restaurants may add a lot of MSG. Long-term consumption can cause significant harm to our bodies. We hope this summary of the dangers of MSG is helpful to you.