Effect of Spicy Samyang Noodle Consumption on Intraocular Pressure

Abstract

Background: The Samyang Buldalk Bokkeummyeon or widely known as spicy Samyang Ramen is an instant spicy noodle product of South Korea which has started the spicy-eating phenomenon worldwide. Spicy food consumption also causes an effect on the body as they are stimulants that stimulate the circulation and elevate the body temperature as it will induce sweating and hence make the consumer feel cooler. Objective: The main objective of this research is to study the effect of spicy Samyang noodle consumption on Intraocular Pressure (IOP) in healthy young adults. Methods: A total of thirty (n=30) subjects between the ages of 18 to 30 with a mean age of 23.3 ± 2.5 years were recruited for this study. Subjects were required to consume a small cup of 70g of spicy Samyang Ramen. Intraocular Pressure (IOP) was measured using an i-Care TA01 Rebound Tonometer before and after 10 minutes of consumption. Results: The mean of IOP measured was 14.23 ± 2.43mmHg, increased to 15.10 ± 2.70mmHg after the spicy Samyang Ramen consumption. This increase in the IOP was statistically significant (increase by 0.9 mmHg; p<0.05) using paired t test. Conclusion: However, there is an increase in IOP after intake of spicy Samyang noodle, the difference is not considered clinically significant. Even so, its intake must still be taken in moderation especially in patients who have borderline high baseline IOP.