A traditional noodle soup could be more detrimental to your health than originally believed, according to a recent longevity study.
In fact, ramen, which is a delicious, warming Japanese concoction made up of noodles and hot broth, has been found to increase the risk of a premature death, research has shown.
Published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Ageing, the scientists assessed more than 6,500 participants across the Yamagata region in Japan to uncover the impact of the tasty broth on life expectancy.
The majority of those who took part in the study ate the Japanese dish at least once a month, while one in three would consume ramen every week.
The ramen broth can be high in sodium content
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All of the participants were sectioned up according to how frequently they consumed a bowl of ramen: less than once a month, one to three times a month, once or twice a week, and three or more times a week.
From the data, the study revealed that those who sat down for a bowl of ramen more frequently were more likely to be younger men who were overweight, drank alcohol and smoked.
Additionally, comorbidities were found to be far more likely to occur. This can include chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
Following almost five years, the researchers logged that 145 died, with 100 dying of cancer and 29 from cardiovascular problems.
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From the numbers, those who drank at least half of the broth and consumed the noodle soup often increased their likelihood of an early death.
Although ramen could seem particularly convenient and healthy at first glance being packed full of leafy greens and protein, the broth is actually where some of the dangers lie.
"Objectively speaking, instant ramen noodles may not be the most nutritious option out there. They can be very high in sodium and may not contain much in the way of fibre, whole grains, vitamins or minerals," dietician Cara Harbstreet, founder of Street Smart Nutrition, told EatingWell.
"However, as with any food, it's important to look at the bigger picture because no single food will convey a health benefit or health risk by eating it."
Instant noodles are often packed full of sodium
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Still, Ms Harstreet warned that packaged noodles often rely “heavily” on sodium for flavour.
High sodium intake is linked very closely with high blood pressure, which can drive risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
In order to make ramen healthier, reducing the sodium content is key. The dietician recommended simply using less of the flavour packet, or serving the dish with less broth.
Or, if you have the time, making the broth and seasoning from scratch could prove to be worth it - both health and flavour-wise.