Found everywhere as an additive in your food, new research has uncovered that this “flavor enhancer” is extremely toxic, causing a battery of adverse health effects within normal dietary ranges.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor enhancer commonly used in many processed foods and restaurant dishes. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified MSG as safe for consumption, some individuals may experience adverse reactions or sensitivity to this additive. 

That said, certain studies have explored potential dangers or concerns associated with MSG consumption. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Excitotoxicity: One potential concern is the possibility of excitotoxicity, which refers to the overstimulation and damage of nerve cells. Glutamate, the primary component of MSG, is an excitatory neurotransmitter. In excessive amounts, it may theoretically contribute to neuronal damage. However, the amount of MSG typically consumed in foods is well below levels associated with excitotoxicity.
2. Allergic reactions and sensitivities: Some individuals may experience adverse reactions after consuming MSG. These reactions are often referred to as “MSG symptom complex” and may include symptoms such as headache, flushing, sweating, chest pain, and numbness or tingling in the face or neck. However, these reactions are relatively rare and typically occur in sensitive individuals who consume large amounts of MSG.
3. Asthma and respiratory symptoms: A small subset of individuals with asthma may experience worsening of symptoms, such as shortness of breath, wheezing, or coughing, after consuming MSG. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and prevalence of these reactions.
4. Migraine headaches: Some individuals have reported that MSG consumption triggers migraines or exacerbates their symptoms. However, scientific evidence linking MSG directly to migraines is limited, and the majority of studies have not found a consistent association.
5. Weight gain and obesity: There is some speculation that MSG may contribute to weight gain and obesity. However, the evidence linking MSG to weight gain is inconclusive. Consuming excessive amounts of foods high in MSG, which are often processed and high in calories, may indirectly contribute to weight gain if they are part of an unhealthy diet.
6. High sodium intake: MSG is a sodium salt, and excessive consumption of sodium can be detrimental to health. High sodium intake has been associated with increased blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. It’s important to monitor your overall sodium intake from various sources, including both naturally occurring and added sources like MSG.
7. Individual sensitivity: Some people may have a sensitivity to MSG, experiencing symptoms such as headaches, flushing, or digestive issues. However, it’s important to note that the occurrence of such sensitivity is relatively rare, and most individuals can tolerate MSG without any adverse effects.

A new study published in the Journal of Headache Pain reveals that a single intake of monosodium glutamate (MSG) produces headache in the majority of healthy subjects tested.

The researchers conducted a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study to examine the effect of repeated MSG intake on the following:

• Spontaneous pain
• Mechanical sensitivity of masticatory muscles (the four muscles that move the jaw laterally)
• Side effects
• Blood pressure

The study method was described as follows:

“Fourteen healthy subjects participated in 5 daily sessions for one week of MSG intake (150 mg/kg) or placebo (24 mg/kg NaCl) (randomized, double-blinded). Spontaneous pain, pressure pain thresholds and tolerance levels for the masseter and temporalis muscles, side effects, and blood pressure were evaluated before and 15, 30, and 50 min after MSG intake. Whole saliva samples were taken before and 30 min after MSG intake to assess glutamate concentrations.”

The results were as follows:

• Headache occurred in 8/14 subjects during MSG and 2/14 during placebo.
• Salivary glutamate concentrations on Day 5 were elevated significantly (P < 0.05).
• Pressure pain thresholds in masseter muscle were reduced (i.e. pain increased) by MSG on Day 2 and 5 (P < 0.05).
• Blood pressure was significantly elevated after MSG (P < 0.040).
• Tolerance did not develop over 5 days of MSG intake.

Also, a wide range of side effects were observed to occur in much greater frequency in the MSG group, including:

• Sore Jaw
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Stomach Ache
• Dizziness
• Chest Pressure

To view the study’s side effect tables, go here and here.

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that monosodium glutamate (MSG) can cause death when consumed in normal dietary amounts.  However, there are many anecdotal stories of people dying after a meal containing MSG.  The deaths were not recorded as death by MSG so no link has ever been established.