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Will the food additive MSG make me gain weight?

RealAge
RealAge
answer

MSG is a food additive used in restaurant and processed foods to boost flavor, but research shows monosodium glutamate side effects may include weight gain. People who started a study at a healthy weight but were among the highest MSG consumers -- taking in about 5 grams a day -- were 33% more likely to be overweight at the end of the study 5 years later. And, surprisingly, it's not because better-tasting food enticed people to eat more. The monosodium glutamate side effects bumped up the risk of extra pounds, regardless of calorie intake. The researchers suspect the MSG food additive might somehow interfere with the signaling powers of appetite-regulating hormones. But while a growing body of research suggests MSG may have negative impacts on weight and appetite hormones, more research still needs to be done to confirm the findings and understand the exact influence of the monosodium glutamate side effects.

Dee Sandquist
Dee Sandquist on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
Nutrition & Dietetics
answer
Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is common in ethnic cooking and is used as a flavor enhancer. In addition, MSG has a unique flavor. MSG contains sodium and glutamate. Most likely the weight gain is the result of eating too much of the food that contains the MSG. Since MSG makes foods taste better, the risk for weight gain may be eating too much because the food tastes so good.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.