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A new study says that MSG might help suppress your appetite--but before you reach for that shady Chinese takeout, experts have a thing or two to say about it.
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a quick and easy replacement for salt that many in the U.S. have dubbed "evil"--and rightfully so. Previous studies have shown some troubling results when consuming high volumes of MSG, and so many have stayed away from it.
However, in a new study published in the American Journal of Nutrition, MSG might have some untapped potential.
In the study, 26 participants were given about two cups of a low-calorie soup or a high-calorie, high-carbohydrate, high-protein soup both with and without the addition of an MSG-enzyme combination.
"The soup was consumed after having an identical breakfast and before lunch on four nonconsecutive days," Shape Magazine explains. "The researchers found that subsequent intake at lunch was reduced with the addition of the MSG-enzyme regardless of the energy amount in the soup."
In other words, whether the participants ate the low-calorie soup or the high-calorie soup, both groups ate less during lunch--meaning that the MSG had suppressed their appetite.
Interestingly, the high-calorie, high-carb, high-protein soup without the MSG also reduced the intake, while the addition of MSG in that soup increased the appetite for the soup itself.
If you are still hesitant to start consuming MSG regularly, you're not alone. While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have deemed MSG "safe" for consumption, many have reported terrifying side effects such as headaches, sweating, facial pressure or tightness, numbness in the face, heart palpitations, chest pain, nausea, and weakness when ingesting it.
While it's notoriously found foods in many Chinese restaurants, it has also made it's way into soups, canned goods, frozen dinners, and processed meats.
Keri Gans, a registered dietitian who writes for Shape Magazine, said, "I think what is important from the study are the results that showed the high-protein and high-carbohydrate soup controlled subsequent intake. I am always recommending to my patients that their meals and snacks be balanced, which means they include fiber, fat, and protein, to aid in satiety."
She also recommends soup as a great way to portion control. Simply eat it as an appetizer and you'll end up eating about 10 percent less, but feel just as full.
What do you think of this new study? Are you surprised? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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