Chinese restaurant syndrome
Chinese restaurant syndrome is a term coined in the 1960s referring to a group of symptoms some people report after eating food from a Chinese restaurant. The symptoms often include headache, skin flushing, and sweating, among others. It is commonly associated with the consumption of food containing high levels of monosodium glutamate (MSG), a type of flavor enhancer.
History[edit | edit source]
The term "Chinese restaurant syndrome" was first used in a letter to the editor published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 1968. The author described a range of symptoms including numbness, palpitations, and general weakness which he experienced after eating at Chinese restaurants. The letter sparked a wave of research into the potential health effects of MSG.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of Chinese restaurant syndrome can vary widely, but often include headache, skin flushing, and sweating. Other reported symptoms include palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling or numbness in the face and neck area, and general weakness. These symptoms usually appear about 20 minutes after eating and last for about two hours.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of Chinese restaurant syndrome is unknown, but it is often associated with the consumption of food containing high levels of MSG. MSG is a flavor enhancer used in many types of cuisine, but is particularly associated with Chinese food. Some studies have suggested that MSG can cause these symptoms in some people, but the evidence is not conclusive.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for Chinese restaurant syndrome typically involves managing the symptoms. This can include drinking plenty of water, taking over-the-counter pain relievers for headaches, and avoiding foods that contain MSG.
Controversy[edit | edit source]
The existence of Chinese restaurant syndrome as a distinct medical condition has been controversial. Some researchers argue that the symptoms are too varied to be considered a single syndrome, and that the association with MSG is based on anecdotal evidence rather than rigorous scientific research. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers MSG to be safe for most people when consumed in normal amounts.
See also[edit | edit source]
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