Book review: in bad taste: the MSG symptom complex

Written by George R. Schwartz, M.D.
by Hoffman Center Staff

Is the increase in cases of ADD, ADHD, asthma, and teenage depression related to the increase in consumption of MSG? George Schwartz, M.D., believes that this is the case, and offers a very convincing argument in the new revised edition of In Bad Taste: The MSG Symptom Complex. According to Dr. Schwartz, monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a drug added to our foods that causes widespread toxicity.

Beginning with a brief introduction and history of MSG, the most widely used flavor enhancer in the world, in Chapter 1 and 2, Dr. Schwartz presents lengthy and diverse case histories of the MSG symptom complex in Chapter 3. In Chapter 4, 5 and 6, we can view a clear portrait of the myriad of symptoms associated with this flavor enhancer. Conditions such as asthma, arthritis, atrial fibrillation and headaches are presented. The exacerbation and connection to current maladies such as Alzheimer's disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, mitral valve prolapse and epilepsy are fully discussed. A total of 65 symptoms and conditions are addressed, and associated with MSG consumption.

Dr. Schwartz address the question, how does one still prepare nutritious meals in a reasonable amount of time and still avoid MSG?, by presenting a lesson on MSG free cooking in Chapter 7, and provides some quick recipes in Appendix 1. Seven shopping tips and list of substitutions enable the reader to find a way to still enjoy their favorite foods, but without the deleterious effects of MSG. Chapter 8 not only categorizes a list of foods most to least likely contain MSG, but also includes a list of common brand name items that contain this ubiquitous flavor enhancer. Further, a brief explanation of food labeling, including the position of the FDA, addresses how this substance can be hidden in our food.

Do you frequent fast food establishments? Are you wondering if MSG is included in the fast food you are consuming? The most logical answer would be that MSG is used in virtually all fast food. However, Dr. Schwartz decided to provide a listing of popular fast food chains, and the most common items they serve that contain MSG, in Chapter 9. Tips on how to avoid MSG when eating in airplanes, trains, cafeterias and restaurants round out the chapter.

Dr. Schwartz clearly explains why he believes MSG is a drug, by comparing its actions with the definition that describes the functions of a drug. 18 pages of scientific references are included to support his argument against MSG. With millions of people currently consuming this flavor enhancer in conjunction with the current rise in childhood disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and other conditions related to the MSG symptom complex, one could understand his passion, and hopefully question what we put into our mouths for nourishment.

From nutritionist to physician to lay person, over the span of 179 pages, this book is an important educational tool, clearly associating MSG with many common conditions omnipresent in our society. This book is desperately needed to address this wide complex of symptoms that would most likely not be associated with one known substance. Anyone interested in improving their health, or making the connection between their own unexplained symptoms and their current diet habits, owes it to themselves to read this book.