MSG: A Possible Headache Trigger
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) seem to trigger headaches and migraines in some people. Some people who do not usually have headaches develop one right after eating foods with MSG. But while MSG appears to cause headaches in some, it does not seem to bother others. Which is why up until now, it is still not known if MSG is a cause of headaches. There have been studies to determine what effect does MSG have on headaches, but results are conclusive.
MSG and Food Manufacturers
A number of food manufacturers use MSG because it is a cheap and effective way of enhancing the flavor of their food products. They use MSG to make their food products taste better even if they use low quality ingredients. With MSG, food manufacturers can bring down the cost of manufacturing food products and enjoy high sales profits.
Because of the many financial advantages that MSG brings, food manufacturers decided to band together and sponsor "medical researches" that are all set out to prove that MSG is safe for consumption. However, sectors that are opposed to the use of MSG in food products contend that these studies are biased, primarily because many FDA board members come from the food industry.
Which Foods Contain MSG?
Labels may or may not say if the food products contain MSG. However, MSG is always present in food products whose ingredients include hydrolyzed protein, yeast extract, sodium or calcium caseinate, yeast nutrient, autolyzed yeast, glutamic acid and textured protein.
There are food manufacturers who refuse to say directly in their labels that their food products conduct MSG. But you can be sure that there is MSG in food products that have any of these words on their labels: flavors, flavoring, stock/bouillon, natural flavors, broth, whey protein concentrate, carrageenan, whey protein isolate, whey protein, soy protein isolate, soy sauce, soy protein concentrate, malt extract, malted barley, maltodextrin and anything that is "protein fortified."
Sports drinks, chewing gum, bubble gum, candy and Coca Cola all contain MSG. If you notice headaches coming on after eating foods with MSG, you may want to start paying attention to food labels and cut back on consuming processed foods.
MSG and Its Effects
Some people experience migraine attacks after consuming MSG. In addition, MSG has a number of effects on the body such as a drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse, angina and arrhythmias. MSG also causes lightheadedness, higher fluid retention, depression, mood swings, nausea, cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, shortness of breath, sneezing, chest pain, skin rash, runny nose, dry mouth, hot flashes, blurred vision and swollen prostate.
To find out if your body is reacting negatively to MSG, go on an "exclusion" diet. For three weeks, eat MSG-free food products. After three weeks, eat food products with MSG. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you need to eliminate MSG from your diet or at least cut back on consuming processed foods.