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Ask The Travel Doctor-TMVC

Q: Hi, we would like to do an escorted group tour to China early next year, but she has a severe reaction to MSG in food, with both vomiting and diarrhoea. Is there any kind of medication for this problem, or do we just have to give up on the idea of going there?

Desley.

 

A:  While MSG is used commonly in China, that is true for most Asian countries, (and quite widely in restaurants in Australia and in many foods as flavour-enhancer number 621), not every place uses MSG and most of the good travellers phrase books tell you how to say "No MSG Please". There is no specific antidote to treat MSG-related symptoms, other than drinking plenty of fresh water.

Dr Kristin

 

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