MSG is commonly used as a flavoring various dishes.
But the last few decades, is also growing controversy surrounding the use of MSG, especially associated with health risks that may arise.
MSG is known as a substance that is also active in neurological result of its chemical composition.
Understanding the chemical composition of substances is important to know what it is MSG.
Basic Chemical Composition
Monosodium glutamate is a kind of salts, that MSG is composed of atoms and molecules that have been ionized, so that it becomes electrically charged.
One unit of monosodium glutamate containing five carbon atoms, four oxygen atoms, eight hydrogen atoms, and the atoms of sodium.
All atoms other than sodium merge into one molecule, known as glutamic acid, bound together into a covalent bond.
Chemical structure of glutamic acid
The main molecule in monosodium glutamate is glutamic acid, one of the nonessential amino acids.
Glutamic acid is the chemical formula HOOC-(CH2) 2-CH (NH2)-COOH. But one of the hydrogen atoms at the end of the bond is lost when molecules combine with sodium to form salt.
The nature of glutamic acid
Glutamic acid, or glutamate, found naturally in a variety of proteins, in all animal products and some plant proteins such as the tomato, soybean, and corn.
Glutamic acid is required for many body processes, for example, in ammonia detoxification in the brain.
Glutamic acid can also be combined with other amino acids to form polypeptides and proteins to perform various functions primarily as a neurotransmitter.
Monosodium glutamate ions are separated into different components - sodium and glutamic acid - when in contact with saliva.
Both of these compounds are naturally present in the body and is necessary for the function of the body to function optimally.
However, because the role of glutamic acid as an excitatory neurotransmitter, high doses of MSG can excessively stimulate the brain and cause certain reactions in people who are sensitive to these compounds.
MSG sensitivity reactions that may arise include headache, nausea, heart palpitations and sweating.
Although short-term reactions in some people, the use of MSG is considered safe by the FDA. (Tips on How to Stay Healthy)