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In a heartbreaking incident, a 13-year-old boy from Cairo, Egypt, died after consuming three packets of raw instant noodles, reported Daily Mail. The teenager started experiencing symptoms like severe stomach pain, sweating, and vomiting within 30 minutes of finishing his snack; he soon passed away.
While it was earlier feared that the product didn’t meet the safety standard, upon investigation it was found that the noodles were not poisoned, as per the report.
The report added that the boy died of acute intestinal problems or digestive obstruction after consuming a large quantity of raw noodles.
Eat Ramen Raw challenge has been around for some time, stemming from the misconception that the ‘precooked dry noodles’ are safe to eat, despite manufacturer’s warning on following the cooking instructions.
This social media craze has made this crunchy snack prepared with crushed dry noodles and seasonings, popular.
Consuming dry noodles can trigger a range of health issues from digestive discomfort to dehydration. According to Food Chemistry, a peer-reviewed journal, the long-term consumption of dried noodles is associated with an increased risk of diet-related disorders, including obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.
High on sodium, and devoid of fibre, noodles are also loaded with preservatives, artificial sweeteners and other additives that can affect liver health and disrupt its function.
Excessive salt intake can lead to dehydration, especially if the water consumption is low. High sodium intake is also linked to high blood pressure, and cardiovascular diseases, according to National Institutes of Health. World Health Organisation recommends no more than 2000 milligrams of sodium. Raw noodles has 1,829 milligrams of sodium, two-third the daily FDA recommended consumption. This can put one at risk of heart failure or stroke.
Instant noodles lack fibre that raises risk for several health risks. According to a PubMed report, diets low on fibre could increase risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and colorectal cancer.
Health risks of raw noodles
“Raw instant noodles are difficult to digest, which may cause obstruction or intestinal blockage that leads to abdominal pain, vomiting, and severe complications that might be fatal. They contribute to dehydration as they pull water from the digestive process. There are related risks of infection and inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract,” Dr Vishal Khurana, Director Gastroenterology, Metro Hospital, Faridabad told Financial Express
Why children should avoid instant noodles
It is important to consume a wholesome diet with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins, minerals and fibre, especially for children. Instant noodles has hidden additives, preservatives and chemicals that can damage liver and kidney, and could lead to a range of chronic diseases.
“Instant noodles are devoid of essential nutrients. They are rich in sodium, preservatives, and unsaturated fats, which can have negative impacts on liver and kidney function. Artificial flavorings such as MSG can have undesirable effects on the health of the brain and general well-being. Frequent consumption has been associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease risk,” says Dr Khurana.
Dos and don’ts for children regarding instant noodles
- Raw instant noodles should not be consumed.
- Noodles should be cooked properly to reduce fat and preservative content.
- Seasoning packets should be avoided and replaced with healthier alternatives.
- Addition of vegetables and protein sources can increase the nutritional content.
- Instant noodles should be taken once in a while and not used as a regular diet.
To stay healthy, eating a diet rich in fibre, vitamins, antioxidants and important micronutrients is essential. It’s important to cut sodium from the diet to avoid risk of heart diseases, diabetes and other chronic issues.
