Ramen with Kimchi Exceeds Recommended Sodium — Try Kalguksu Instead
Creatrip Team
6 months ago
South Korean food authorities found that eating instant ramen with kimchi results in about 2,135 mg of sodium—above the WHO adult daily recommendation of 2,000 mg. The same kimchi paired with kalguksu (handmade noodle soup) has much lower sodium (about 1,282 mg), and kimchi with curry is around 1,343 mg. Ramen’s salty broth makes it easy to exceed daily limits; experts advise reducing soup intake or choosing lower-sodium dishes. Excess sodium increases risks of high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, stomach inflammation and cancer, bone loss, and kidney stones. Convenience-store meals and salty side dishes like kimchi, ham, and sausages can boost sodium intake. Health professionals recommend limiting broth consumption, choosing lower-sodium options, and adding more vegetable side dishes to manage sodium intake.