The Reasons Behind You Cannot Often Eat Instant Noodles

Mie Instan (Digital Photo Linds/Pixabay)

JAKARTA - Instant noodles are one of the most popular foods around the world. Although the price is cheap and tastes good, unfortunately the health effects of consuming instant noodles are still a question. This is due to the high sodium and MSG content in the noodles. In 100 grams of noodles, there are only 142 calories.

Quoted from Thailand Medical News, based on World Instant Noodle Associates' estimates, China, Indonesia, Japan and Thailand are the countries that consume the most instant noodles. Here are the reasons why it is necessary to reduce consumption of instant noodles, cited from various sources.

Low in fiber and protein

A serving of instant noodles contains 188 calories. Because they are low in calories, eating instant noodles can help you lose weight. However, because they are low in fiber and protein, they are not the best choice for a diet.

Fiber and protein are needed to increase satiety and reduce hunger, which is needed when dieting. Only 4 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber are contained in a serving of instant noodles, meaning that it will not reduce hunger or satiety.

High MSG

The average instant noodles contain monosodium glutamate (MSG), a food additive that is commonly used to enhance the taste of processed foods. Several studies have linked very high consumption of MSG to weight gain, increased blood pressure, headaches, and nausea.

Although MSG is safe when consumed in moderation, some people may be sensitive to MSG and should limit their intake. This condition is known as the MSG symptom complex. Sufferers may experience symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, numbness, and tingling sensations.

Increase the risk of heart disease

A study conducted by the Journal of Nutrition found that people who consume excessive amounts of instant noodles have a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, symptoms of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Contains a lot of salt

The high salt content in instant noodles can affect health, especially if consumed too often. A study published in the American Journal of Hypertension in 2014 found that high dietary sodium consumption was one of the main factors in the increasing number of deaths. The sodium in the noodles can cause high blood pressure and heart disease.