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Regardless of the manufacturer’s brand, all bouillon cubes are not good. Many people still think they are a concentrated stock, but that is a big mistake. Their basic ingredient is salt solidified in palm fat, thickened with maltodextrin and enriched with the flavor of monosodium glutamate, sugar and other artificial flavorings. It is colored with caramel and preserved with propyl gallate.
None of that sounds particularly tasty, right? Natural ingredients, such as meat extract, onion, parsley and others, make up only 3 percent of the entire product. That is insanely little and means that you flavor your soups and sauces with dangerous chemicals that have no place in the body. And you don’t even know it! Let’s look at the individual ingredients of bouillon and their effects on the human body. We will focus especially on the main ones, such as:
- salt,
- palm oil,
- maltodextrin,
- monosodium glutamate.
Salt and oil
Salt is of course necessary for the human organism, just as for other members of the animal kingdom, but it must not be overdone. Excessive salt consumption increases the risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack. You will be thirstier and your digestion will also suffer. In combination with fats, colorings and preservatives it is a pure gamble with your health.
Palm oil is generally considered highly harmful. It is a carrier of so‑called trans fats, which are responsible for atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. It also contributes to insulin resistance and the development of type II diabetes. No matter how you look at it, it is not something positive that should enter your body. Therefore you should avoid all products that contain it.
Maltodextrin
You can commonly find this ingredient on the market and it is primarily intended for elite athletes who need larger amounts of energy. But it is not suitable for ordinary individuals. It negatively affects the bacterial flora in the digestive tract, has a high glycemic index and raises blood sugar levels. And you definitely don’t want any of that. Unfortunately this substance is also contained in your favorite bouillon.
Monosodium glutamate
MSG probably does not need a long introduction. Most people know it is not healthy and they should avoid it. Maybe you don’t know why. Excessive consumption can cause skin allergies, tachycardia, headaches, vomiting, irregular heart rhythm, dizziness and even depression. As a result of increased acetylcholine production and reduced glucose absorption, body weight may increase.
It also blocks neurological functions of the hypothalamus, which is responsible for controlling your appetite. This means that even though you are full, the body still feels hungry. For that reason you eat more, which is another reason for gaining weight. And you certainly don’t want to gain weight. Moreover, you can cook broth and sauce at home excellently even without adding this unnecessary and health‑hazardous cube.
