Glutamic Acid

Definition

A non-essential amino acid that when combined with sodium produces sodium salt or MSG. Also known as glutamate.

Also Known As

glutamate

Health Impact

Glutamate is an excitotoxin (aka a neurotransmitter known to kill brain cells) and can cause headaches, muscle tightness, numbness, tingling, weakness and flushing in some people. People who are sensitive to MSG should avoid glutamic acid.

Sources

• Excitotoxins in foods

  Pub Med

• Questions and Answers on Monosodium glutamate (MSG)

  FDA

• Effect of systemic monosodium glutamate (MSG) on headache and pericranial muscle sensitivity

  Pub Med