By Jen Nelson

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) has been used in Oriental cuisine for more than 1,000 years to add unique flavor to traditional dishes. High levels of MSG, however, have been connected to a condition commonly known as “Chinese Restaurant Syndrome” (CRS).

What is MSG?

MSG, a common food additive, is often found in Chinese food but can also be found in other foods naturally, such as tomatoes and mushrooms.

What is CRS?

CRS is similar to an allergic reaction. It is believed to be caused by foods containing high amounts of MSG, although it has not been proven conclusively. Tests have shown that eating foods containing MSG on an empty stomach increases the level of MSG absorbed into the bloodstream, causing symptoms to become more severe.

Symptoms include:

– Burning sensation on the back of the neck, chest, shoulders, abdomen, thighs and forearms – Pressure, tightness or numbness in the face – Chest pain – Nausea and vomiting – Headache – Sweating – Palpitations – Flushing – Wheezing

How is CRS treated?

Since CRS is similar to an allergic reaction, antihistamines are most often used to alleviate symptoms. However, symptoms will usually disappear on their own without treatment after several hours.

How is CRS monitored?

People who have been diagnosed with CRS are advised to avoid foods containing large amounts of MSG. Although MSG is difficult to avoid because of its presence in other foods, symptoms can be reduced considerably by avoiding Chinese food cooked with MSG and cutting back on foods naturally containing MSG.

-Information gathered from Discovery Health Channel’s Web site (www.health.discovery.com) and the Glutamate Association’s Web site (www.msgfacts.com).