Monosodium Glutamate Exposure in Fast Food and Its Contribution to Obesity Risk Among College-Aged Hispanics on the Texas-Mexico Border

Main Article Content

Marisol Acosta

Keywords

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG), Obesity Risk , College-Aged Hispanics, Texas-Mexico Border, Public Health , Obesity Prevention, Socioeconomic Disparities, Metabolic Health

Abstract

This literature review explores the potential link between monosodium glutamate (MSG) exposure through fast food consumption and obesity risk among college-aged Hispanics residing on the Texas-Mexico border. Given the high prevalence of obesity and related comorbidities in this population, understanding the role of dietary habits and processed food consumption is crucial. Although MSG is generally recognized as safe (GRAS), concerns persist regarding its long-term health effects, with animal studies suggesting potential associations with weight gain and metabolic disruptions. However, human studies remain inconclusive, necessitating further research to clarify MSG’s contribution to obesity. The unique socio-cultural and economic factors in the Texas-Mexico border region, including acculturation and limited access to healthy foods, further complicate dietary behaviors and obesity risk. This review synthesizes existing evidence on MSG's health implications, dietary patterns in border communities, and the broader food environment’s impact on health outcomes. It highlights critical research gaps, emphasizing the need for longitudinal studies, targeted dietary assessments, and culturally sensitive interventions to mitigate obesity risk in this vulnerable population.

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