“Instant noodles”, eaten every day, what effect does it have on the body? Are you a fan of instant noodles? If yes, then you should know about these 6 side effects of instant noodles. Although they are quick to prepare, they can harm your health in many ways.
Instant noodles and their health effects
1. Low nutritional value
Instant noodles are notorious for their low nutrient content. They contain almost no essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber. However, they contain a lot of calories, mostly from refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats, which can be problematic for weight management. If you consume instant noodles regularly, you may increase your risk of malnutrition.
2. Contains monosodium glutamate (MSG) .
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a common additive in these noodles. It is used to enhance the flavor. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has generally recognized MSG as safe, there is still ongoing debate about its potential side effects. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggested that consuming high amounts of MSG was associated with weight gain, headaches, nausea, and even high blood pressure. However, some other studies have found no link between weight and moderate MSG consumption.
3. High sodium content
One of the most alarming side effects is its high sodium content. Just one serving can contain more than half of the recommended daily intake of sodium. According to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology , excessive sodium consumption has been linked to organ damage and can lead to a number of health problems. Including high blood pressure, heart disease, แทงบอล UFABET ราคาดีที่สุด ไม่มีขั้นต่ำ and stroke. “For people with pre-existing heart conditions or those prone to high blood pressure, regular consumption of instant noodles can worsen these conditions and lead to serious cardiovascular complications,” explains nutritionist Saloni Arora.
4. Potential health risks
Aside from immediate nutritional concerns, regular consumption of instant noodles poses potential long-term health risks. A study published by Nutrition Research and Practice suggests that frequent consumption of instant noodles may be linked to metabolic syndrome. A condition that increases the risk of high blood pressure, high blood sugar (diabetes), excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
Another study published in the Journal of Korean Medical Science found that regular consumption of instant noodles was associated with low levels of vitamin D in the body. However, low vitamin D levels have also been linked to insufficient sunlight exposure and a poor diet.
5. Full of bad fats
Instant noodles are often fried in palm oil or other unhealthy oils. During the manufacturing process, which makes the product high in saturated and trans fats, both of which are known to raise LDL (bad cholesterol) levels while lowering HDL (good cholesterol). “Diets high in these fats can lead to atherosclerosis. A condition characterized by the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries. Increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes,” Arora says.
In addition, excessive consumption of saturated and trans fats has been linked to obesity, liver disease, and other chronic health conditions.
6. Packed with harmful preservatives
To extend their shelf life and maintain their flavor, instant noodles are loaded with preservatives such as Tertiary butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). While these chemicals are safe in small amounts, long-term consumption can be harmful. A study published in the Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences linked chronic exposure to TBHQ to neurological damage. An increased risk of lymphoma, and an enlarged liver.