Mi Instan Too Often Can Affect the Bones? This is What Doctors Say

Illustration of instant noodles (Photo: Freepik/jcomp)

JAKARTA - Instant noodles have long been the mainstay of many people. It tastes good, satisfying, and can be ready in minutes without hassle. No wonder this food is the main choice of students, office workers, and anyone who wants to eat quickly when hunger strikes.

However, behind its practicality, there are health risks that need to be considered. Instant noodles are included in the category of ultra-processed foods that contain various artificial additives. If consumed too often, the impact can be detrimental to the body in the long term.

A Mumbai-based orthopedic doctor, Manan Vora, who is also known as a health educator and one of the founders of NutriByte Wellness, reminded people not to eat instant noodles too often. This was revealed in an Instagram video uploaded on December 1, 2026.

"Eating like this occasionally won't immediately damage your health, but if it becomes a habit, the impact will be felt. Switch to real food. Protect your gut, your energy, and your long-term health," said Vora, quoted from the Hindustan Times website.

According to Manan Vora, instant noodles are not just a practical food that gives you a sense of comfort in an instant. If consumed continuously, it can actually have a negative impact on health. He also highlighted the popularity of products such as Buldak ramen, which has recently been very popular with Generation Z, as an example of how instant noodles are increasingly consumed without considering the risks.

"Instant noodles are not 'instant comfort'. It is instant damage. And the brands don't even hide it anymore. Try to turn the packaging over, you will find the same three danger signs on most of these products," he said.

Here are three main things that he thinks need to be watched out for.

1. TBHQ (Tertiary Butylhydroquinone)

TBHQ is a synthetic preservative used to extend the shelf life of packaged foods. This substance serves as an artificial antioxidant so that the fat and oil in the product does not quickly spoil or spoil. However, Dr. Vora explained that regular consumption of TBHQ can have a negative impact on the body.

"This substance is associated with oxidative stress if it is often consumed, and gives unnecessary burden to the body system," said Dr. Vora.

2. Styrofoam glass

Many instant noodles in cup packaging use a polystyrene container, a type of synthetic plastic. It is practical enough to pour hot water and wait a few minutes. However, there is a hidden risk.

"Once you add hot water, microplastics can dissolve out. This plastic gets into the body, increases inflammation, and in the long run can irritate the intestines," said Dr. Vora.

The continuous exposure to microplastics is feared to trigger various health problems, especially those related to the digestive system.

3. Artificial flavors, dyes, and MSG

Instant noodles are also known to contain synthetic flavors, artificial dyes, and MSG (monosodium glutamate) which serves as a flavor enhancer. This combination makes the taste more savory and difficult to refuse.

"This is an ultra-processed formulation made to improve taste. It triggers the desire to overeat. This product is designed to last on the shelf, not to nourish the body," added Dr. Vora.

MSG itself is often debated, but what is in the spotlight is the combination of various additives in ultra-processed foods that can encourage excessive consumption.

Eating instant noodles occasionally may not immediately cause serious problems. However, if it is made into a daily menu, the risk can increase, ranging from digestive disorders, inflammation, to a decrease in the quality of body energy.

Dr. Vora's message is simple, return to more natural and minimally processed foods. The body needs a balanced intake of nutrients, not just strong taste and practicality.

So before making instant noodles a regular meal, it might be a good idea to think twice. The momentary comfort is not necessarily comparable to long-term health.