Table of contents:
- What does MSG contain?
- MSG side effects for the body
- Why does eating MSG cause headaches?
- Limiting MSG from food
When you eat out, have you ever suddenly had a headache that feels stabbing and makes you dizzy? Whether eating in a street vendor or in a five-star restaurant, mealtime headaches are quite common in Asian countries. If you have also experienced it, it could be that the headache is the body's reaction to MSG which is also known as "micin". To find out more about how MSG can cause headaches, see the following information.
What does MSG contain?
Monosodium glutamate or often abbreviated as MSG is a food flavor enhancer that is commonly found in Asia. This substance is in the form of fine crystals similar to salt which can make dishes taste more savory and delicious. MSG itself is made from a mixture of sodium and glutamic acid. MSG products available in the market and in stores today are factory-made, not natural.
MSG side effects for the body
Many people have reported various complaints after consuming foods containing MSG. There are those who have experienced side effects after consuming a little MSG, but there are also people who will experience side effects if they consume too much MSG. The following are the complaints that often arise.
- Headache
- Dizzy
- Migraine
- Nausea
- Kebas on the back of the neck, back, and arms
- Chest tightness
- Heart palpitations (palpitations)
- Symptoms such as an asthma attack
- Pressure on the cheeks or jaw
- Stiff head or face
- Sweating
- Limp
Why does eating MSG cause headaches?
Experts are still debating how exactly MSG causes headaches or other adverse effects on the body. Until now, there is no research that can prove how MSG can cause the body reactions as mentioned above. The studies that have been done can only show a strong link between MSG and these complaints.
However, there are several theories that are strong enough to explain why MSG is a headache. The glutamic acid content in MSG is believed to make your blood vessels narrow and then widen. This constriction and dilation of blood vessels is what makes your head feel sore.
This blood vessel reaction can trigger abnormal activities on the nerves of the brain. The nerves in the brain will be over-stimulated by substances in MSG so that you feel dizzy and have a headache.
Limiting MSG from food
Usually the complaints experienced by consuming MSG are not fatal. The side effects that appear will slowly disappear after you stop eating MSG-containing foods. To relieve various symptoms, you can take headache medicine and take a break. However, if your reaction to MSG is serious enough, it's best to contact your doctor.
The only way to prevent MSG side effects is to limit or not consume MSG at all. If you are eating out, ask food vendors or waiters not to add MSG to your food. Meanwhile, when you cook yourself at home, do not use MSG.
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