Think your bowls of ramen are harmless? New research links the beloved comfort dish to life-threatening health risks

A steaming bowl of ramen may feel like the ultimate comfort food, but new research suggests that indulging too often could come with dangerous consequences. Scientists from Yamagata University School of Medical Science in Japan have linked frequent ramen consumption to an increased risk of premature death. The findings were published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health and Ageing.

A Staple With Hidden Risks
Ramen, with its rich pork-based broth, chewy noodles, and savory toppings, is a staple across Japan and a global favorite in countries like the US, UK, and Australia. However, its high salt content has raised concerns. Researchers explained, “Ramen noodles and their soup contain high salt content; therefore, frequent intake can lead to high amounts of sodium, which may increase the risk of salt-related diseases, such as stroke and gastric cancer.”

The Study Behind the Warning
The study tracked 6,725 adults over the age of 40, dividing them into groups based on how often they ate ramen: less than once a month, one to three times monthly, once or twice a week, and three or more times weekly. Over an average of four and a half years, 145 participants died, with 100 deaths from cancer and 29 from heart disease. Alarmingly, men under 70 who consumed ramen three or more times weekly had a noticeably higher risk of mortality.

Broth and Lifestyle Factors Matter
It wasn’t just the noodles that raised red flags. Those who consumed at least half of the salty broth and also drank alcohol faced an even greater risk. The study also noted that heavy ramen eaters tended to smoke, drink, and have higher body mass index scores, compounding the health dangers.

While the authors emphasized that the study was observational and does not prove ramen directly causes early death, the association is strong enough to warrant caution. “Frequent intake of ramen noodles might be associated with mortality risk in men, aged under 70 years and those who consumed more than 50% of the noodle soup and alcohol,” the researchers concluded.

This research adds to the growing global conversation about the hidden risks in popular comfort foods. While an occasional bowl of ramen is unlikely to harm most people, experts suggest moderation, balanced nutrition, and awareness of salt intake as key to long-term health.