12-3+The+Issues+of+MSG

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What is Monosodium Glutamate? It is a white crystal obtained by fermenting carbohydrates such as starch, sugar cane and molasses using bacteria. The white crystals dissolve completely in water forming sodium cations and glutamate anions. These probably account for the salty and acidic taste found in foods flavored with Monosodium Glutamate. Monosodium Glutamate is not the only glutamate used as flavor enhancers in food. There are many others being used currently as food additives which have the same effect as Monosodium Glutamate. A glutamate is a form of glutamic acid which is a naturally occurring amino acid. Mention amino acids found in meat and more realize the effects Monosodium Glutamate may have on our body systems. Monosodium Glutamate appeared a century ago when it was isolated and after Ajinomoto Corporation of Japan patented it, it was soon in widespread use in Asian Cuisine. It produces the same effect as seaweed extract which contains high concentrations of media type="youtube" key="g-pnzj0c06Q" width="425" height="350" glutamic acid but times more harsh being in its pure form. Hence after dining at restaurants which use Monosodium Glutamate rampantly, consumers often feel thirsty, bloating in the stomach and abdominal region and in extreme cases, nausea and vomiting. Monosodium Glutamate is however not classified as an allergen as no long term effects have been attributed to the consumption of it. It is something that even babies can metabolize as in its natural form, glutamate is as high as ten times in breast milk than in cow's milk. One wonders though whether that attributes to why babies get knocked out faster after a feed at the breast. You can find Monosodium Glutamate in fast foods, especially in processed foods. It forms a large part of pre-prepared stocks in powder form or compressed into cubes. It is used in condiments such as barbecue sauce and salad dressing. Snacks such as chips and fritters may also contain a relatively high amount. Dried, canned and frozen food especially pre-flavored ones can also contain Monosodium Glutamate. Read the labels on seasoning mixtures and you will find Monosodium Glutamate listed as one of its other names. All said and done about the negative effects about the flavor enhancer, the consumption of Monosodium Glutamate in the long run has not been clinically known to lead directly to diseases or death. If we follow the rule of moderation in food consumption, we should be safe enough from suffering any long term ill effects of consuming Monosodium Glutamate in our diet. source : []