8 Food additives and their effects on health

Packaged foods and fast food usually rely on a variety of additives to enhance their taste and appearance, while also extending their shelf life in the store. Even so, these various additives can be bad for health if consumed in excess. Here are some of the most commonly used food additives, along with the risks they may cause.

What are the most common food additives, and what are their health effects?

1. MSG

MSG (monosodium glutamate) aka mecin is an additive used as a food flavoring agent. Not only limited to packaged and fast food, home cooking is often also added with mecin to make it taste even more delicious.

The effect of MSG on health is still a hot topic of debate. Some experts argue that mecin can cause problems with the nerves and brain work so that it makes you "sluggish". Most eating mecin is also strongly suspected to be the cause of your frequent headaches and nausea, as a symptom of Chinese Restaurant Syndrome. Meanwhile, a number of other studies have found no specific link between consumption of MSG with health problems.

Despite the controversy surrounding the dangers of MSG, the FDA has declared MSG a safe food additive. This FDA decision was also approved by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Indonesian Ministry of Health.

2. Artificial dyes

Artificial dyes are food additives that are used to enhance appearance. Foods that are bright and fresh in color will attract people to buy. However, not all food coloring is safe to use. Several studies have shown that artificial dyes can increase the likelihood of childhood allergies and hyperactivity in children with ADHD.

Not only that. Some artificial food coloring is strongly suspected to trigger cancer, for example diamond blue (Blue 1), allura red aka Red 40, and caramel coloring.

Red 3, otherwise known as erythrocyte, has been shown to increase the risk of thyroid tumors. Although only limited to animal studies, researchers believe that the effects are likely to be the same if consumed by humans.

It's a good idea to choose foods without artificial coloring, or use dyes from natural ingredients (such as suji leaves for green) to avoid the risk of disease occurring.

3. Sodium nitrite

Sodium nitrite is a preservative in processed meat that is used to prevent bacterial growth. In addition, the additives in these foods also add to the salty taste and make canned meat look reddish pink like fresh meat.

Unfortunately, if exposed to high enough heat, this substance can change form into nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are known to cause colon cancer, breast cancer, bladder cancer, and stomach cancer. For that, try to eat and process fresh meat yourself to reduce the risk of cancer.

4. High fructose corn syrup

Fructose corn syrup is an artificial sweetener that is often found in sodas, juices, candy, cereals, and various snack foods. A study has shown that this material can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes if it is often consumed in excessive portions.

In addition, this one substance can also trigger inflammation in cells that can lead to various serious diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Research has also proven that this sweetener does not contain the vitamins and minerals that the body needs.

Instead, choose foods and drinks without added artificial sugar. You can add pure honey as a healthier substitute for sugar.

5. Artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin and others are widely used in low-calorie sweet foods and drinks.

Research shows that artificial sweeteners can help you lose weight and help manage blood sugar levels in the body. Although it is commonly used as a healthier substitute for granulated sugar, excessive consumption of artificial sweeteners is not necessarily good for health.

To avoid the risk of problems, experts recommend that artificial sweeteners are consumed appropriately.

6. Sodium benzoate

Sodium benzoate is an additive in acidic foods and soft drinks. The FDA, the Food and Drug Administration of the United States, has declared sodium benzoate safe for consumption.

Even so, several studies have shown that the combination of sodium benzoate and food coloring can increase the tendency for hyperactivity in children. In addition, sodium benzoate combined with vitamin C can also turn into benzene, a substance that can increase the risk of cancer.

So, it's good to be careful before buying. Avoid foods and drinks that contain benzoic acid, sodium benzoate, benzene, or benzoate in combination with vitamin C such as citric or ascorbic acid.

7. Artificial flavors

Some drinks and packaged foods with “real taste” appendages sometimes get their taste with the help of artificial flavors.

Animal studies have found evidence that these artificial flavors have several negative effects on health if consumed in excess.

A study quoted from Healthline states that the production of red blood cells in mice is reduced after being given artificial flavors for seven consecutive days.

In addition, certain artificial flavors such as chocolate and strawberries have a toxic effect on bone marrow cells. While the taste of grapes, prunes, and oranges can inhibit cell division and have a toxic effect on bone marrow. However, further research is still needed to see its effects in humans.

So, it is better to limit the consumption of foods with artificial flavors. Try to buy food or drinks that are formulated using natural ingredients to be able to enjoy the original taste.

8. Trans fat

Trans fat (trans fat) is a hydrogenated vegetable oil that is usually found in margarine, biscuits, pop corn , fried foods, to creamer.

Various studies have shown that trans fats can increase bad LDL cholesterol which gradually increases the risk of heart disease.

For that, it is better to limit the consumption of foods that contain trans fats. Also, use other vegetable oils that are safer for cooking, such as olive oil, canola oil, and sunflower seed oil.

Limit consumption of foods that contain additives

Apart from the eight types of additives above, there are actually many more chemicals that are added to fast food. The more portions you consume and the various types, the higher the risk for health.

Therefore, it is better to limit the consumption of processed and packaged foods that contain lots of additives. Siasati by cooking yourself using fresh natural ingredients. To enhance the taste, you can use a variety of seasonings instead of salt or MSG.