For General Information: (740) 374-1400

24 Hour Nurse Line: (844) 474-6522

Filter by Custom Post Type
About Us
Careers
Community
Locations
Memorial Health Foundation
News
Pages
Patient and Visitors
Providers
Services

X


Monosodium glutamate, also called MSG: Is it harmful?

February, 27th, 2025


Question

What is MSG? Is it bad for you?


Summary

This flavor enhancer often added to foods can cause headache and other symptoms in some people.


Answer

, Answer Section, ,

Monosodium glutamate, also called MSG, is used to make food taste better. Glutamate is a form of the amino acid glutamic acid. Both are naturally in food such as cheese, tomatoes, mushrooms and meat. Glutamate is not related to gluten.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, also called FDA, lists MSG as a food ingredient that’s safe to eat in typical amounts. But some people may react to MSG. For that reason, when MSG is added to food, the FDA says it must be listed on the label.

These reactions, called MSG symptom complex, are not allergic reactions. They may include:

  • Headache.
  • Visual aura without headache.
  • Flushing.
  • Body tingling.
  • Quick, fluttering heartbeats, called palpitations.
  • Chest pain or heaviness.
  • Feeling sick to the stomach, called nausea.
  • Muscle aches.

Researchers have found no clear proof of a link between MSG and these symptoms. But some people may have short-term reactions to MSG. Symptoms are often mild and don’t need to be treated. To prevent a reaction, don’t eat foods that have MSG in them.


Sign Up For Our Community HealthLine Magazine

Stay informed, inspired, and connected with the Community HealthLine magazine! View past and newest editions conveniently available online, or sign up for a FREE printed version.

Subscribe