JAKARTA - Instant noodles are often a favorite food choice because they are practical, easy to find, and have a savory taste. However, behind the practicality, this food still needs to be consumed wisely.
Nutritionist and member of the Indonesian Dietitians Association (AsDI), Diah Maunah, emphasized that instant noodles should not be made a regular daily menu.
According to Diah, instant noodles are still safe to consume as long as the frequency is limited and processed in the right way. He suggests that instant noodles are only consumed occasionally, for example once a month, and treated as a "recreational" food.
"Instant noodles can be consumed if we understand the limitations. The content of sodium, fat, and energy is quite high, so it is not recommended to consume too often. Ideally, it is enough once a month," said Diah.
He explained that the popularity of instant noodles in the community is inseparable from their affordable price and ease of serving. In the rainy season, boiled instant noodles are also the choice of many people because they provide a warm sensation and a familiar taste on the tongue.
However, the nutritional content of instant noodles still needs to be considered, especially the sodium and fat content. Diah said that instant noodles with broth generally have higher sodium content than fried noodles, which can reach more than 1,000 milligrams in one serving. This amount almost meets 75 percent of the daily sodium needs of adults.
"For people with hypertension or those who are sensitive to sodium, consuming one pack of instant noodle soup alone will almost consume the daily sodium intake limit," he explained.
Excessive consumption of instant noodles, especially without being balanced by a healthy diet, has the potential to cause various health problems. Some of them are hypertension, vascular disorders, decreased kidney function, to digestive problems such as stomach and intestinal irritation.
In the adolescent group, the habit of eating instant noodles too often can also have more serious effects, ranging from hemorrhoids to the risk of intestinal disorders if it lasts in the long term. In addition, the excess energy intake from instant noodles also contributes to weight gain and obesity.
Therefore, Diah reminded the public to be more wise in choosing daily food and make instant noodles only a diversion, not the main source of intake.
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