There are 3 main reasons why instant noodles are not a great food choice.
A. Loaded with preservatives and flavour enhancers:
Firstly they are loaded with preservatives like TBHQ - Tertiary butylhydroquinone, it is also commonly found in crackers, microwave popcorn, chicken nuggets, etc. It is used to prevent spoilage of processed foods. It is usually safe in small quantities but prolonged use of it can lead to neurological and DNA damage and can act as an carcinogen. Instant noodles also contain these flavour packs which act as flavour enhancers and this is what usually contain the MSG - monosodium glutamate. MSG, has been long known in the food industry to be a controversial ingredient. MSG, is linked to obesity, metabolic disorders, neurotoxic effects and disorders of the reproductive system.
B. Very high in Sodium
You need sodium for proper functioning of the body, however over-consumption of sodium can lead to stomach cancer, heart diseases and stroke. That is why when choosing salt - always go for low sodium sea salt instead of table salt. Similarly, choose for low sodium soya sauce. One pack of instant noodles contain 1,760mg of sodium, or 88% of the 2g recommended value by WHO.
C. Lack in Key nutrients
They are fortified with certain nutrients like iron and vitamin B to make them nutritious but they are high in fat, low in protein, fibre, vitamin C, Vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and potassium making the negatives outweigh the positives.
So, What is the solution?
How can we make them healthier?
My first suggestion is to try and eliminate or reduce the use of instant noodles all together in your diet. I have cooked up a super easy and tasty recipe of chicken ramen which you can incorporate in your diet and satisfy those cravings or hunger-pangs.
Tasty and simple Chicken Ramen soup
Second, if you have to use instant noodles, the do not use the flavour pack provided with the noodle pack as that is what contains the MSG and all the sodium. Instead use your own sauces like oyster sauce, fish sauce, low sodium soya sauce, chicken stock to make your soup broth.
Third, make them more nutritious, by adding vegetables, eggs, chicken, tofu to increase the protein content of your soup.
Fourth, choose healthier noodles option over wheat or white rice varieties like soba noodles, brown rice, soya or edamame noodles.
Fifth, choose the chicken stock over chicken broth for a healthier option.
Read, more about chicken stock and chicken broth in the next post.
Source : Healthline, NCBI, BBC.
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