Monosodium Glutamate

Also known as:  MSG

Monosodium Glutamate is the Sodium Salt of Glutamic Acid.  It contains 78% free Glutamic Acid and 21% Sodium (the remaining 1% is comprised of “contaminants”).  The Glutamic Acid component of MSG is comprised of both the D-Glutamic Acid and the L-Glutamic Acid forms.  The D-Glutamic Acid component is believed to be the form of Glutamic Acid responsible for the toxicity associated with MSG.

The toxic effects that occur as a result of excessive consumption of MSG are known as Chinese Restaurant Syndrome.

MSG is known to be more toxic than Glutamic Acid - this is due to MSG being more readily absorbed by the body compared to Glutamic Acid.  The increased toxicity of MSG is also believed to occur from the presence of the D-Glutamic Acid form of Glutamic Acid (as opposed to L-Glutamic Acid).

Digestive System

 Excessive consumption of MSG may cause Intestinal Cramps (abdominal Pain).  ^[1]

 Excessive consumption of MSG may cause Vomiting.  ^[2]

Excretory System

 Excessive consumption of MSG may damage the Kidneys. 

Eyes/Vision

 Excessive consumption of MSG may cause Blurred Vision.  ^[3]

 Excessive consumption of MSG may damage the Retina (which could lead to Blindness).  ^[4]

 Excessive consumption of MSG may cause Sight impairment.  ^[5]