Why are instant noodles unhealthy?
As much as people love consuming instant noodles or pancit canton for their convenience, affordability, and taste, many don't know that there are underlying health risks involved. Consuming instant noodles on a daily basis can have a number of very serious consequences for your health. Here are a few reasons why instant noodles are bad for you:
They're high in sodium
A single serving of instant noodles can have anywhere between 397 – 3678mg of sodium per 100g serving, sometimes even more. While sodium is an essential mineral for the proper functioning of your body, too much sodium isn't good for your health.
One of the largest contributors to dietary sodium intake is processed foods, including instant noodles. Having a diet high in salt has been linked to an increase in the risk for stomach cancer, heart disease and stroke. In individuals who are considered salt-sensitive, a high-sodium diet may increase their risk for high blood pressure which, in turn, can negatively impact heart and kidney health.
Considering the 2-g-per-day sodium intake recommendation of the WHO, consuming even just one pack of instant noodles would make it very difficult for you to keep sodium intake within the recommended limits. With that said, people who consume multiple packs of instant noodles per day will undoubtedly lead to massive amounts of ingested sodium.
They contain MSG
Instant noodles have MSG, which is a very common additive found in many processed foods. Its primary role is to enhance the flavour and palatability of foods. While it is widely used in many types of foods and is approved for consumption by the FDA, there are concerns regarding its short- and long-term effects on the body.
Anecdotal reports suggest that consumption of MSG has been linked to symptoms like headaches, nausea, high blood pressure, weakness, muscle tightness, chest pain, heart palpitations, and flushing of the skin. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming MSG, you may have a condition known as the MSG symptom complex. Although there has not been definitive evidence establishing the link, it is acknowledged that a small percentage of people may have these short-term reactions to MSG.
Some studies have also linked high consumption of MSG to obesity and increased blood pressure. However, for the most part, the small amounts of MSG that are found in instant noodles will likely not lead to these side effects as long as they're taken in moderation.
They're low in fibre and protein
Despite being a low-calorie food, instant noodles are low in fibre and protein which may not make them a good option for weight loss. Protein has been proven to increase feelings of fullness and decrease hunger, while fibre moves slowly through the digestive tract, thus promoting feelings of fullness.
Considering the low protein and fibre levels in instant noodles, consuming them regularly likely won't satisfy your hunger or make you feel full at all. In addition, a diet that is low in fibre is associated with a higher risk of digestive conditions such as constipation and diverticular disease as well as reductions in healthy gut bacteria.
They have been linked to poor diet quality
Some studies have shown that regular consumption of instant noodles is associated with poor overall diet quality. In one study, diets of those who consumed instant noodles were compared to those who didn't. The instant noodle consumers were found to have a significantly decreased intake of protein, calcium, vitamin C, phosphorus, iron, niacin, and vitamin A. They also had an increased intake of sodium and calories. Instant noodles have also been found to increase one's risk of developing metabolic syndrome, a condition that increases your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
