A review of the implications of maternal monosodium glutamate consumption on offspring health

Background and aims

Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a globally used food additive for over a century, is considered generally safe. Although inconsistent, many animal studies have shown that MSG is associated with multiple health conditions, necessitating a closer examination of its potential health impact, especially on fetal development. Human data on MSG's effects on offspring during pregnancy are lacking. This review examines existing literature to assess the impact of maternal MSG consumption on offspring health.

Methods

A systematic literature search of human and animal studies was conducted using PubMed and Web of Science, resulting in 14 animal studies and no eligible human studies.

Results

Included studies highlighted potential weight fluctuations, alterations in skeletal and liver development, obesity, and neurological alterations in offspring. MSG may cross the placenta to exert direct effects on the developing fetus, while potentially inducing physiological changes in pregnant women that secondarily influence offspring. The possible mechanisms underlying the observed offspring's outcomes include neurotransmitter disruption, which can lead to neurological implications. Additionally, MSG may promote oxidative stress, potentially contributing to liver toxicity and obesity. MSG's interference with hormones, such as progesterone and ghrelin may impair fetal growth and skeletal development, while altering leptin and adipsin pathways may predispose offspring to obesity.

Conclusion

Current evidence from human studies is lacking. Animal models can help elucidate biological mechanisms, but they may not fully capture human physiology. Future prospective cohort studies with rigorous MSG assessment are needed to clarify the impact of maternal MSG intake on the health of human offspring.