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Health Risks Associated with Tertiary Butylhydroquinone
Research has shown that high doses of TBHQ can lead to a range of health issues. Animal studies have indicated that TBHQ may cause liver enlargement, convulsions, and paralysis.
In humans, excessive consumption of TBHQ has been linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, as well as neurological and behavioral problems. Although direct studies on humans are limited, some research suggests potential health concerns:
Carcinogenic Potential: High doses of TBHQ have been associated with the development of precursors to stomach tumors and DNA damage in animal studies, raising concerns about its carcinogenic potential in humans.
Neurological and Behavioral Effects: TBHQ has been implicated in behavioral effects, leading to its inclusion on the “do not consume” list of the Feingold Diet, a dietary approach to managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Immune System Impact: Recent studies suggest that TBHQ may harm the immune system, potentially affecting immune responses.
Additionally, TBHQ can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with food allergies, leading to more severe allergic reactions. Although the amounts of TBHQ found in ramen noodles are considered safe by regulatory standards, the cumulative effect of consuming multiple processed foods containing TBHQ can be concerning.
