Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer that is commonly used in the food industry to enhance the taste of processed and packaged foods. It is known to be safe for most people, but in recent years, there are concerns about its adverse effects on older adults. In this write up, we will discuss the adverse effects of MSG in older adults and how it affects their health.
MSG is known to cause a range of health problems such as headaches, flushing, sweating, and other symptoms in some people. These symptoms are referred to as MSG symptom complex or ‘Chinese Restaurant Syndrome’. The symptoms usually occur soon after eating foods that contain MSG, and they can last for a few hours.
The adverse effects of MSG in older adults are more severe than in younger adults, primarily due to age-related changes in the body’s metabolism. As people age, their bodies become less efficient in processing food, and this slows down the metabolism. This slowdown can make it harder for the body to metabolise MSG, which can lead to an accumulation of MSG in the body.
Some Adverse Effects of Monosodium Glutamate in Older Adults include:
1. Its impact on the cardiovascular system. Studies have found that consuming foods containing MSG can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and the risk of stroke in older adults.
2. MSG consumption can damage the lining of the blood vessels, which can lead to atherosclerosis, or the hardening of the arteries.
3. Another adverse effect of MSG in older adults, is the impact it has on the nervous system. MSG is an excitotoxin, which means that it can overstimulate nerve cells in the brain. This overstimulation can cause damage to the nervous system, leading to a variety of symptoms such as memory loss, confusion and difficulty with concentration.
4. MSG can also increase the risk of developing neuro-degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Multiple sclerosis. Studies have found that consuming high levels of glutamate, the primary component in MSG, can cause damage to the brain cells that produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is essential for communication in the brain.
5. MSG can also exacerbate existing medical conditions in older adults. For example, people with diabetes may be particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of MSG because it can worsen insulin resistance, leading to higher blood sugar levels. People with asthma may also be at risk because MSG can trigger respiratory symptoms.
6. MSG can impair the function of the digestive system in older adults.
7. It can cause bloating, cramping, and diarrhea, leading to malabsorption of nutrients.
8. This effect can contribute to malnutrition in older adults, which can lead to a range of health problems such as osteoporosis, weakened immune system, and depression.
MSG can also affect the overall quality of life of older adults. Older adults who consume foods containing MSG may experience a decline in physical and mental health, which can affect their ability to perform daily activities and enjoy life.
In conclusion, MSG can have adverse effects on the health of older adults, and its consumption should be minimised or avoided. Older adults should avoid processed and packaged foods, soups, and sauces that contain MSG. Instead, they should choose fresh, whole foods and season them with herbs and spices. If someone experiences adverse effects after consuming foods containing MSG, they should talk to a healthcare professional and avoid these foods in the future.
From Olufolake Sowobi
Nutritional and Industrial Biochemist
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