Question
Can a 4-Year-Old Child Eat Monosodium Glutamate?
Answer
Children under 4 should try to avoid consuming monosodium glutamate, as it can convert zinc in the blood into glutamic acid zinc, which is then excreted from the body. Zinc is an essential element in the growth process of children, and zinc deficiency may lead to intellectual decline, slow growth, decreased appetite, and delayed sexual maturation. Therefore, to ensure healthy growth for children, it is recommended that parents limit their use of monosodium glutamate and consider using sugar or other natural flavorings to season food.