Ramen noodles, often seen as a quick and convenient meal, have become a staple in many households, especially among college and high school students. However, beneath their seemingly harmless exterior lies a plethora of health concerns that make them far from an ideal food choice.

Firstly, Ramen noodles are notoriously high in sodium. A single serving can contain more than half of the recommended daily intake of sodium. Each small package of store-bought instant ramen actually contains two servings, both of which are 190 calories. Additionally, the preservatives and additives used to prolong their shelf life can have adverse effects on our bodies, contributing to problems ranging from digestive issues to long-term chronic conditions.

High sodium intake can have  serious effects on your health.  It can lead to high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Too much sodium can also cause your body to retain water, leading to bloating and swelling. Over time, it can put a strain on your kidneys, making it harder for them to remove excess fluid and waste from your body. This can eventually lead to kidney disease.

The nutritional value of Ramen noodles is alarmingly poor. They are typically made from refined wheat flour, which lacks essential nutrients and fiber. This means that while they may fill you up temporarily, they do little to provide the necessary vitamins and minerals your body needs to function. In the long run, relying on ramen noodles as a dietary staple can lead to nutrient deficiencies and potentially poor health.

“The primary concern with Ramen noodles is their high sodium content. By seasoning the noodles yourself, boiling them in low-sodium vegetable broth, and adding ingredients like chicken or broccoli, you can significantly enhance the nutritional value of the meal,”

Registered dietitian Jill Trotman said.

Although ramen noodles packets are low in nutritional value, you are able to heighten the nutrition you are receiving. To overall increase the healthiness and betterness  there are other options of ramen rather than the most common Maruchan Flavor Ramen Noodle Soup.

“Whole wheat noodles, noodles with high fiber content, or lo mein noodles are all excellent alternatives to Ramen noodles,” Trotman said.

If you are opposed to switching out your noodles the best solution would be to consume within moderation, as well as using your own seasonings, and add-ins.

“Consuming ramen noodles once or twice a week, or even once or twice a month, is considered a reasonable amount,” Trotman said.

Ramen noodles, while convenient and popular, are generally not the healthiest food option and can pose potential health risks over time if consumed excessively. However, by following these

tips, you can enhance the nutritional value of your ramen and make it a more health-conscious choice.