Long-term intake of more MSG easily leads to obesity

A study has shown that people who consume more MSG (sodium glutamate) are more likely to become overweight or even obese.

Researchers at North Carolina State University conducted a 5.5-year follow-up survey of the dietary habits of 10,000 adults in China. The results of the survey showed that people who consumed more than 5 grams had a 30% higher chance of being overweight or obese after 5.5 years than those who consumed less than half a gram a day. Song Xin, dietitian of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital, said: “In addition to meals, monosodium glutamate is also commonly used in processed foods. Commonly prepared instant soups contain large quantities of MSG. Instant noodles, potato chips, biscuits, canned foods, etc. Monosodium glutamate is also a common seasoning.” The researchers pointed out that the reason that MSG causes obesity may be related to its effect on leptin secretion. Leptin increases the metabolic rate and suppresses appetite.