Ajinomoto is actually the name of a massive Japanese corporation that manufactures countless food products, of which MSG is only one.
Nearly all Thai dishes contain MSG in one form or another even if the cook/vendor doesn't add actual MSG. For instance, it is in the pork and chicken seasoning powders which are extensively used here (Rod Dee), both the Anijomoto brand and the Knorr brands. You will find that it is in most seasoning sauces here as well, so the reality of the matter is, if you eat Thai food, you WILL be getting MSG whether you like it or not.
For those who enjoy reading, some research will quickly reveal that MSG is not only used in Asia, it is added to food products as a flavor enhancer the world over, and is even present in some non-food items such as toothpaste for example.
While there has been a lot of hype about MSG, it is perhaps worth noting that it has been subjected to more scrutiny than virtually any other item of food, and yet no solid evidence exists to support claims that it cause any ill effects.
MSG was a Japanese discovery and it is still extensively used in Japan, a country that is well known for long life expectancy.
Anyway Pete, I seriously doubt MSG has anything to do with the problem you have with Japanese food. Personally, I would be more concerned about soy, all soy products. Maybe try avoiding all soy with your next Japanese meal and see if it makes a difference.
I also don't believe going to bed with a full stomach is to blame. I know it is supposedly bad for you, but it certainly would keep me from sleeping. Like you, my afternoons are way to busy for me to eat a big lunch, and I even avoid eating a tiny lunch because it makes me drowsy. Most days I have a big dinner at home, and I am usually asleep about an hour later.
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I am not overweight as a result, but then again, dinner is typically the only meal I eat, and it has been for countless years already.
Let us know how you get on.
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Don't try to impress me with your manner of dress cos a monkey himself is a monkey no less - cold fact