So as I was doing some reading about additives, I was struck by a pretty well-known culprit:  Monosodium Glutamate or “MSG.”  Turns out some of the most notable symptoms for those sensitive to its effects are headaches and an aching in the back of the neck and shoulders.  Sometimes this spreads to the forearms and palms and can cause irritation in addition to nausea, dizziness and a general poor mood or disposition.  Wow!  I notice those symptoms pretty often and usually assume them to be dehydration.  But now I’m concerned that it may be more akin to MSG side effects.

What is MSG?

Many know it as the “chinese restaurant syndrome” because MSG has long been a staple among Asian restaurants as a flavor enhancer.  MSG isn’t a completely man-made poison.  In fact, it’s natural form isn’t quite so harmful, as it bonds with other amino acids, forming a protein molecule.  However, when MSG is synthesized in a lab and sprinkled artificially onto your food, it isn’t bonded but rather a “free” molecule.  This unnatural separation from the protein provides the punch to the taste buds but also floods the body with unbound acids that don’t help to do anything nutritional.   This causes the side effects I mentioned.

The interesting thing about MSG is that everyone’s reaction is unique.  Some people are considered “MSG Sensitive” and their reactions go beyond the aforementioned into the realm of increased anxiety, cramps, skin rashes, confusion, heart palpitations, and even seizures.  Of course, these more extreme reactions are akin to any other food allergy and pertain to a small percentage or people.  Still, the flood of unbound acid molecules into the body over-stimulates the brain enough to warrant caution from anyone.  It simply isn’t nutritious and should be avoided.

As always, check your labels.  MSG is in lots of processed and packaged foods, especially those with high sodium content.  And, of course, always check with your Asian cuisine chef to make sure no artificial MSG is used in your Orange Chicken.

It may seem like a horrifying thought, but the truth is your body acquires a substantial build-up of various toxic residues and contaminants every day just by living in modern society.  The human body isn’t really made to digest the complex sugars and starches that are staples of a modern diet, especially in America and the West.  We constantly accumulate toxins by breathing urban air, bathing in treated water, and eating chemical-laden processed foods, not to mention the various unhealthy habits we acquire like drinking alcohol and using tobacco.

All of these things contribute to the build-up of toxic substances in your body.  You aren’t doomed, however.  You don’t have to give up your Doritos or move to a remote island in order to be healthy, however there are a few things that can be done to correct this mismanagement of your body’s nutrition and chemical balance.  The key to health and longevity in the modern world is counter-balancing your toxic lifestyle by periodically “flushing” your system of unnatural and unnecessary substances.

Various methods exist and here at the Body Cleanse Hub, we review these various methods and products to give you a sensible, grounded understanding of your options so you can decide the best way for yourself.

Some cleansing techniques require strict fasting and long periods of extreme dietary restrictions.  However, other methods allow you to continue your regular diet (with a few healthy suggestions) while taking supplements to increase digestion and your body’s natural cleansing mechanisms.

The body is like a car. It’s your vehicle in this life. And, like an automobile, it occasionally needs some maintenance to keep it running healthy and strong to get you from point to point. A detoxifying cleanse is like changing your oil. It’s easy maintenance and can save you a lot of pain and misfortune in the long run.

The key is to stay informed, stay educated, and stay balanced.  Modern life is a difficult balancing act but there are ways to walk “the middle way” so as to enjoy the things you like to eat while caring for your body along the way.

“Health is Wealth” is the popular adage and how true it is.  Material things and possessions can be replaced.  But you only get one body.

Treat it well.