Posted by KayeBaby on April 16, 2007, at 3:11:24
In reply to Re: Sick from Whey protein?, posted by someday on April 13, 2007, at 22:43:39
> Is the bad reaction from MSG because of free glutamates?
Yes. Apparently free glutamates function as a nuerotransmitter and stimulate receptors in the brain. Heating or hydrolyzing proteins 'unbinds' them and creates excess free-form glutamate.Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter and an excess amount can be overstimulating to to brain cells and could cause damage.
Some people are more susceptable to the effects of too much glutamate. From what I can gather there is an enzyme that converts glutamate to GABA (a calming neurotransmitter)and in certain people this enzyme is impaired.
Conditions or circumstances in which the blood brain barrier is weak can allow more than a healthy amount of glutamate in. There are various other conditions in which the glutamate levels can be too high. B-6 deficiency is said to contribute to greater suceptability to harm caused by excessive glutamate. Also, when consumed in the free-unbound form they lack the natural balancing aspect of the whole protein.The way I understand it is that glutamate is essential to the proper functioning of our brain. It is only when there is a disproportionate amount (for whatever reason) that you run into trouble. Eat your proteins in their natural form, avoid large amounts of msg and you can take certain supplements to keep the glutamate levels in check.
The ones I am familiar with for this purpose are B6, CoQ10, Taurine and also magnesium.
The question of whether or not msg or free glutamates in our foods are harmful for people in general is contoversial. I think it is accepted that for SOME people in SOME circumstances it is.
I avoid eating foods laden with free glutamates and take the supplements that balance them and I have not had another terrible reaction.
This is just my basic understanding of the subject. I have no professional scientific background so take it for what it is worth.
Take Care,
Kaye
poster:KayeBaby
thread:749565
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20070410/msgs/750197.html