Internal medicine specialist, Dr. Linga Ramot Gumelar, warns that the regular consumption of seblak and other foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG) can have negative effects on kidney health. According to Dr. Linga, excessive salt and sugar intake from such foods can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes. Dr. Linga explains that an excess of salt and sugar not only impacts the kidneys but also other organs. «If consumed excessively, salt and sugar can trigger chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes,» he said.
He highlighted the habits of the younger generation who often consume seblak and sweet drinks, which can significantly increase the risk of these two diseases. Data shows that the incidence of hypertension and diabetes in Indonesia is quite high. According to the 2021 International Diabetes Federation (IDF) data, Indonesia ranks fifth in the world with 19.5 million diabetes sufferers. This number is estimated to increase to 28.6 million by 2045. In addition, the 2018 National Health Survey of the Ministry of Health shows that the prevalence of hypertension in Indonesia reached 34.1%. Dr. Linga explains that hypertension and diabetes are the main causes of kidney failure. These two diseases make the kidneys work harder to remove toxins and waste from the body.
However, he also emphasizes that the consumption of seblak or foods containing MSG does not always directly damage the kidneys. «If we eat spicy food too often, it can irritate the stomach. Although it does not directly affect the kidneys, the digestive system, especially the stomach, will be impacted first,» he added. Seblak and other excessively spicy foods can cause stomach irritation, even though they do not directly impact the kidneys. To maintain health, Dr. Linga recommends regularly drinking water and reducing the consumption of sugar, salt, and excess fat. He also advises the public to be physically active, such as walking, running, or doing cardio exercises, especially for young people. «Exercise should be adjusted according to age. For those over 40 years old, the intensity should be lighter. While for the younger ones, they can try badminton, basketball, or football,» said Dr. Linga. With these simple steps, we can prevent chronic diseases that can cause kidney problems and other health disorders.
