Signs & Symptoms of MSG Allergy
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a common flavor enhancer added to Chinese food, soups, canned and boxed foods, processed meats and other foods. Although many anecdotal reports have been made of negative reactions to MSG, research has been unable to replicate these effects.
Other People Are Reading
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Official Word
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According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, no evidence suggests that MSG contributes to any long-term health problems. The agency acknowledges, however, that some people may have short-term reactions to MSG.
Symptoms
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Symptoms reported by some people after eating MSG include headache, heart palpitations or chest pain, shortness of breath or an asthma attack, a sense of facial pressure or tightness, nausea and weakness.
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Skin Sensations
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Additional signs of a reaction to MSG include skin sensations such as flushing and sweating, and burning, numbness or tingling in or around the mouth.
Allergy Concerns
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MSG itself has not been shown to cause an actual allergic reaction. However, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), research has shown that glutamate increases histamine release in rats, which could increase the risk of allergic responses to other foods.
Expert Insight
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In a study published in a 2009 issue of the journal "Clinical and Experimental Allergy," researchers were able to produce severe runny nose in three participants who took 100-milligram capsules of MSG, but not other allergy symptoms. The researchers concluded that people who eat more typical amounts of MSG would be unlikely to have any symptoms.
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