Does Glutamic Acid Heal Or Damage Nerves?

Food additives are used to provide health benefits, prolong shelf-life and alter the flavor and texture of foods. Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is added to Chinese takeout and processed meats to enhance flavor. Glutamic acid is a similar substance added to beer. Glutamic acid excites the nervous system in your gastrointestinal tract to increase taste sensation. Consuming excessive amounts of glutamic acid and MSG may be damaging to your nervous system, especially if you have a sensitivity.

Glutamine

It is important to note that MSG and glutamic acid have very different effects on your body than glutamine. The amino acid glutamine is naturally produced by your body and can also be obtained from certain foods including meat, dairy and green leafy vegetables. During periods of illness or chronic stress, your doctor may recommend a glutamine supplement to speed recovery and keep you strong. The benefits of glutamine are related more to tissue synthesis than nervous system effects. Glutamine may be combined with arginine to promote optimal healing. While glutamine is beneficial for healing, it should not be confused with glutamic acid, the potentially destructive food additive.

Sensitivity

Glutamic acid is sometimes associated with "Chinese restaurant syndrome." The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America describes the symptoms of this syndrome as headaches, a burning-sensation at the back of your neck, chest tightness, diarrhea, nausea and sweating within two hours of digesting foods that contain the additive. Keeping track of negative symptoms in relation to what you eat can help pinpoint a sensitivity.

Sensation

In November 2011, "The Journal of Nutrition" published a study on the effects of MSG on the vagus and hepatic nerves. The vagus nerve runs from your brain to your stomach, while the hepatic nerve connects to your liver. This study demonstrated that glutamate sensors present in digestive organs excite nerve signaling. The study suggests that glutamic acid affects nerve receptors in your digestive tract, rather than in your brain. Ingestion of glutamic acid directly impacts your nervous system during digestion, regardless of whether you experience the negative symptoms of Chinese restaurant syndrome.

Lifestyle

It is unclear if negative effects from glutamic acid intake lead to permanent nerve damage. Although glutamic acid and MSG add flavor, neither has been associated with beneficial healing effects. Avoid eating foods with these additives if you are prone to unpleasant reactions. Check the ingredients list on food labels to screen for MSG and glutamic acid. Try making your own Chinese food using natural products and fresh vegetables for flavor. MSG is associated with the savory taste umami. Spices such as cumin, garlic and cayenne pepper are great alternatives that enhance flavor without possible harm.