Wednesday, July 20, 2011

What are the health risks related to adding of Monosodium Glutamate in food

What are the health risks related to adding of Monosodium Glutamate in food?
What is the safe amount of MSG that can be added to food (like Chinese)? Are there different qualities / varieties available in the market of MSG with different health safety levels?
Other - Health - 3 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
There is no proven fact about the effects of MSG. However, many have reported their complaints about this substance. The following are the most common: dizziness, high blood pressure, insomnia, and athirst. I experienced dizziness after eating noodles flavored with MSG. I don't know how much is safe MSG. However, real and natural spices and flavorings can do in your cooking.
2 :
MSG is only really a concern if you are prone to allergies or migraines. Asthmatics also often have a reaction to it. Otherwise it really does just make food taste better. Naturally occurring glutamates are found in hard cheeses, mushrooms, concentrated tomato paste and many other 'savoury' tasting foods. So a pizza with tomato and loads of Parmesan will have far more glutamates than your average Chinese meal!!! Interestingly, human breast milk is really high in MSG! You can buy it in Asian grocers, but I'm pretty sure it is just standard strength. Just use a pinch like salt, (too much will ruin the taste of your meal) or simply replace it with other natural glutamates like fish sauce, shrimp floss or mushrooms.
3 :
Like many substances it is not necessarily harmful or safe. It depends on the person. Many people are allergic to it or intolerant though. For people who are allergic to it there is no safe amount. Many Chinese resturants indicate which items contain MSG or which items are MSG free. MSG is MSG, there are no differences. Symptoms of MSG allergy or intolerance include cold-like symptoms or migraine headaches. Other symptoms are possible. Sometimes symptoms can be very severe. MSG can be a decent alternative to table salt. It can react with certain medications though.