Instant noodles are a staple food for many Vietnamese, especially for students. It’s a go-to meal during late-night study sessions or when you’re running low on cash at the end of the month.
However, several studies have highlighted the potential negative effects of instant noodles on our health, including skin issues and digestive problems.
1 Do instant noodles cause weight gain?
Instant noodles are high in calories and carbohydrates, leading to a 33.7% increase in body fat and a 10.7% increase in weight. While it may seem that instant noodles can contribute to weight gain, they lack essential nutrients and are not effective for weight gain.
Moreover, the fat in instant noodles is of the unhealthy variety (Trans fat), and regular consumption can lead to weight gain resistance and meal skipping.
Instant noodles are high in calories and carbohydrates
Relying solely on instant noodles as a meal replacement without incorporating protein and vegetables can lead to severe nutrient deficiencies and increase the risk of various health issues:
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Internal heat: Instant noodles, made from fried wheat flour, can cause internal heat if not consumed properly.
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High salt content can lead to high blood pressure and kidney stones.
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Phosphate content (added for flavor): This can lead to calcium deficiency, resulting in osteoporosis and weak teeth.
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The high-temperature frying process can produce toxic substances, increasing the risk of cancer and accelerating aging.
Therefore, using instant noodles as a means of gaining weight is not scientifically supported, and those aiming to lose weight should also be aware of the potential negative impacts on their health.
See also: A list of healthy snacks for those trying to shed some pounds.
2 How to consume instant noodles healthily
To ensure optimal nutrition when consuming instant noodles, it is recommended to supplement with green vegetables and protein sources such as meat and eggs.
You can also use external seasonings like broth powder, MSG, and self-made seasoning mixes to reduce the amount of oil and unhealthy additives in the noodles.
Instant noodles should not be a primary meal choice and should be limited to once or twice a week. Check out these tips for a healthier instant noodle experience:
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Rinse the noodles with hot water before adding the seasoning to remove the coloring.
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Limit instant noodle consumption to no more than 10 times per month.
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Pair instant noodles with vegetables, eggs, tofu, seafood, meat, and dairy products to reduce salt and oil intake.
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Avoid eating instant noodles at night or before bedtime.
Learn more about healthy instant noodle consumption.
Do instant noodles cause weight gain?
3 Other potential harms of excessive instant noodle consumption
Stomach and digestive issues
Instant noodles contain high levels of oil, flavor enhancers, and additives. Regular consumption can dull your taste buds and put a strain on your stomach during digestion, potentially leading to stomach disorders and discomforts like bloating and stomach pain.
Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
If you want to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system and avoid conditions like high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and stroke, it’s best to limit your intake of instant noodles.
Instant noodles are high in fat, including trans fat and saturated fat, which are particularly harmful to the elderly and those with a history of cardiovascular disease.
Kidney stones
Instant noodles are loaded with salt, and excessive consumption can harm your kidneys and even lead to kidney stones. The high phosphate content in instant noodles can also contribute to osteoporosis, bone loss, and weak teeth.
While instant noodles may not be effective for weight gain, they can still be enjoyed as a tasty treat when consumed in moderation and combined with nutritious ingredients.
Source: Health & Life