By now most people know that MSG is bad and are avoiding it. But, what many people don't know is that the food companies have come up with many ways to list it in the ingredients without us, the consumer, knowing that it is in fact MSG or closely related and therefore probably contains MSG (this is due to the fact that so many people have put up a fight to keep this bad additive out of food).
Here is a link to a site that lists the names that are used for MSG, including yeast extract, soy protein, and more: http://www.truthinlabeling.org/hiddensources.html.
If you aren't aware about MSG, here is some basic information to help make you aware...
MSG, or Monosodium glutamate, can have a stronger affect on some people than others - if they have a higher sensitivity. MSG is "generally recognized as safe" by the FDA. There are many side affects associated with MSG, the most common being:
- Headache
- Flushing
- Sweating
- Facial pressure or tightness
- Numbness, tingling or burning in the face, neck and other areas
- Rapid, fluttering heartbeats (heart palpitations)
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Weakness
Children are more susceptible to the affects of MSG than adults. As MSG is a cheaper, very flavorful additive the food industry is putting a big fight for MSG - they claim it is fine for consumption and that very, very few people have reactions to it. Scientific studies have shown, however, that up to 40% of the population are having reactions to it. They are also starting to link MSG to other health problems and are doing studies on that now. Also, many countries have limited or have strict requirements concerning labeling with MSG. Recently, MSG has been approved for being sprayed on crops in California... no studies have been done yet related to this.
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