Lifestyle

Here’s a new study about instant noodles that might just stop you from eating it again

2016-03-19 , 3:37 pm

Last Updated on 2016-09-27 , 3:03 pm

Raise a hand if you’re guilty of eating instant noodles whenever you are too lazy to cook yourself a meal. Instant noodles are usually our go-to food, especially when most of us are up all night mugging for exams.

We get hungry and the easiest thing to whip up in minutes is a pack of instant noodles. And let’s face it, they might be awesome as hell but they’re not the healthiest food to gobble down. A new study that got published earlier this month by The Journal of Nutrition can attest to that.

Instant noodles contain a bunch of MSG, saturated fat, loads of sodium and a chemical preservative derived from petroleum called ‘tertiary-butylhydroquinone’ (TBHQ) which affects your digestive system. Okay, if we haven’t scared you off with the part about petroleum derivation, continue reading.

Based on the data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007-2009, researchers examined the diets of 10,711 adults between the ages of 19-64.

They found out that consuming instant noodles two or more times per week can lead to a higher risk of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess abdominal fat and abnormal cholesterol – all of which can lead to heart diseases, diabetes and stroke. The study has also shown that women stand a higher chance of getting such conditions. It’s said that hormones in women cause them to be more vulnerable to these negative health effects.

The study’s lead investigator, Dr Hyun Joon Shin said that the Styrofoam container used to hold instant noodles contains a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA). This chemical interferes with the way hormones transmit messages within the body, specifically estrogen – a hormone that promotes the development and regulation in female sexual characteristics.

Also, a video that appeared in 2011 featured by TEDxManhattan showed the process of instant noodles being digested in our body as compared to homemade noodles. Participants consumed both noodles before ingesting a tiny camera that will help to transmit video footage from inside their gastrointestinal tract. However, more than two hours after consumption, the instant noodles still remained largely recognizable whereas the homemade noodles have mostly been broken down. Scary, no? It’s like panadol all over again, where we were told that a tablet of panadol stays in our liver for three months.

So if you’re one of those who can eat two packs of instant noodles in a day, it’s time to reconsider your love for it and opt for something a little healthier! If you’re going to be pulling all-nighters, stock your fridge and cabinets with fruits and protein instead! We promise you: your body will thank you.

Top Image: Rachata Teyparsit / Shutterstock.com

Here’s a new study about instant noodles that might just stop you from eating it again

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