Recently I discovered I am sensitive to monosodium glutamate (MSG).  The discovery came as the result of doing some research on the artificial sweetener known as aspartame.  Aspartame and mononsodium glutamate (MSG) are both excitotoxins.  Excitotoxins are chemicals that trick our brain into thinking something tastes good.  These chemicals are ultimately poison.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is found in more foods than I would have imagined.  The part that bothers me most is that by law in Canada and the United States, food manufacturers do not have to directly reveal the presence of MSG on labeling.  Unlike aspartame, monosodium glutamate (MSG) does not have to be labeled as  clearly.

Food Additives that ALWAYS contain MSG

• monosodium glutamate
• hydrolyzed protein
• plant protein extract
• sodium caseinate
• calcium caseinate
• yeast extract
• textured protein (including TVP)
• autolyzed yeast
• hydrolyzed oat flour
• corn oil

Food Additives that FREQUENTLY contain MSG

• malt extract
• malt flavoring
• bouillon
• broth
• stock
• flavoring
• natural flavors / flavoring
• seasoning
• spices

Food Additives that MAY contain MSG

• carrageenan
• enzymes
• soy protein concentrate
• soy protein isolate
• whey protein concentrate

Today marks Day #7 without knowingly consuming MSG.  My symptoms, which were mainly diarrhea and and difficulties with focus, have been cleared up since Day #3.  I am planning a future post that contains a list of common grocery items that contain MSG.

Sources

Excitotoxins: The Taste That Kills by Russell L. Blaylock