One of the most well-liked street foods that has gained recognition in current a long time is momos. The steamed dumpling with scrumptious filling of greens or rooster and served with totally different sorts of chutneys particularly guidelines hearts in monsoon when the cravings for decent and spicy road meals are on all-time excessive. Momos like different junk meals objects are addictive and plenty of youngsters and younger adults repeatedly eat them to satiate their mid-meal cravings. However, within the current years, the antagonistic results of their long-term consumption have come to the sunshine. Be it the excessive content material of Ajinomoto/MSG, use of refined flour or stuffing of semi-cooked greens like cabbage, all these components can pose many well being dangers. (Also learn: Bihar man, believed dead by family, found eating momos in Noida)

“Eating too much momos, a popular dumpling dish, can have various negative impacts on adults. Excess consumption of momos can contribute to weight gain and lead to obesity, which increases the risk of developing chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Moreover, momos are often made with refined flour, which can spike blood sugar levels rapidly and be harmful for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing it,” says Suparna Mukherjee, In-charge, Clinical Nutrition Department, Narayana Health City Bangalore.

1. Digestive points

Momos can wreak havoc along with your digestive well being and consuming them day by day can result in points like constipation, acidity and bloating. “Excessive intake of momos can cause digestive issues like bloating, indigestion, and acid reflux,” says Mukherjee. The all-purpose flour or maida utilized in making these dumplings is the primary perpetrator.

2. Food allergy

People who’re vulnerable to meals allergy symptoms ought to keep away from consuming momos regularly. “Some individuals may also be allergic to certain ingredients in momos, leading to allergic reactions e.g. gluten,” says Mukherjee.

“Allergies to certain ingredients, such as gluten or soy sauce, can manifest as skin rashes, breathing difficulties, or gastrointestinal disturbances,” says Roshan Kore, Consultant Dietician, NHSRCC Hospital, Mumbai.

3. Heart illness

“Eating momos regularly can lead to development of hypertension or high blood pressure. The high sodium content in momos can contribute to hypertension and increase the risk of cardiovascular issues,” says Kore.

4. Weight achieve

“Frequent consumption of fried or oily momos can lead to weight gain, increasing the likelihood of obesity and related complications like type 2 diabetes,” says Kore. “Fried momos with mayonnaise presently in high trends which contain very high amount of fats and oil,” notes Mukherjee.

5. Gastro points

Kore says insufficient hygiene throughout preparation can expose kids to foodborne sicknesses, inflicting gastrointestinal infections.

6. Cancerous

“Ajinomoto/MSG and other food additives and preservatives can be carcinogenic. If it’s made from the traditional way with fresh ingredients and no additives, it can be considered as a healthy snack,” says Kore.

“Overall, it’s a combination of refined cereal (maida), fats and oil (majorly bad fat) and few vegetables or any other stuffing. Individuals with obesity, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and digestive issues should consider limiting their momo consumption for above reasons. It is always advisable to maintain a balanced diet. And enjoy momo occasionally not often,” says Mukherjee.

“Balancing momo consumption with a diverse and nutritious diet is essential to mitigate these potential health risks in children. Regular exercise and maintaining proper hygiene practices further support their overall well-being,” says Kore.