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Monosodium glutamate (MSG) acts as a flavor enhancer but may have a significant impact on appetite regulation through its effects on the hypothalamus. In animal studies, MSG can damage specific areas of the hypothalamus that are responsible for maintaining the balance between hunger and satiety, leading to increased fat storage and metabolic issues. This is concerning since MSG consumption in the average diet ranges from 590 milligrams to over 5,000 milligrams in certain restaurant meals. As MSG exaggerates appetite and reduces energy utilization, its presence in many processed foods raises questions about its long-term health effects on humans.