How to Avoid Monosodium Glutamate

Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is a flavor enhancer commonly found in packaged foods. Food producers add MSG to make inexpensive food taste better. Foods containing MSG are generally unhealthy, containing very little nutritional value and empty calories. MSG also stimulates insulin production in the body, so people can eat these foods and still be hungry for more. It's even shown to be addictive. MSG "tricks" the body into thinking real, nutritional food is being consumed. Replacing cheap, processed foods with whole, fresh food is an important step toward a healthier diet.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid buying processed and prepackaged foods. Eat whole food as much as possible. Raw, fresh produce, unflavored dairy products and unprocessed meat are all safe choices. Food that is as close to its natural state is best. If you're unsure, check the ingredient list.

• 2

  Know the alternate names for MSG. Umami, glutamate and free glutamic acid are all names for monosodium glutamate. Food producers may use alternate names to try to "hide" MSG in their ingredient lists.

• 3

  Avoid fast food. Most fast foods contain MSG. You can view ingredient lists on most fast-food chain Web sites.

• 4

  Don't forget about sources of MSG that aren't food. Some beverages, especially diet sodas, contain MSG. Be sure to check ingredient lists on medicines and vitamins.