The MSG Allergy Myth

Chances are, if you've ever had MSG come up in a discussion, it was about how bad it is for your health. It really gets a bad rap, especially in the U.S. This reputation is completely undeserved, however. Next time, take a moment to question whoever thinks MSG is bad for you; can they even name any specific reasons for why it's unhealthy? Most likely, the answer is no.

"It's up to you"

Everybody should be familiar with this one. You're with a friend or a group of friends, and you ask "what do you guys want to eat?" At that moment, there will undoubtedly be a person that says "I don't mind anything, it's up to you". At first, it might seem like they're just being open-minded and polite, but that's just wishful thinking on their part. In truth, "it's up to you" basically translates to "Don't ask me, I don't feel like deciding". It's dismissive; an avoidance of responsibility. It contributes nothing to the situation; if anything, it makes everything more frustrating.

It doesn't just stop there, either. There are people who say "anything is fine", only to shoot down every suggestion you give. It makes absolutely no sense. If you have a preference, just say it! I've actually seen people get mad about a decision after specifically stating that "ANYTHING is FINE". Please, just try and help make a decision. Don't try to hide your indecisiveness with this pretentious bullshit. You're basically just dead-weight in a survival situation...or an asshole.

"Finish Your Food", or Overeat?

I'm not sure if this varies from culture to culture, but the general rule at the dinner table seems to be "finish your food". Your parents encouraged (or strictly enforced) it from an early age so it's likely been ingrained into your eating habits like a tumor. As a result, you've probably had numerous meals where you forcibly shoved food down your throat just to clear your plate. The main reason behind this form of parenting is obvious: wasting food is inconsiderate to those who are less fortunate. This is a perfectly acceptable cause, but being who I am, I couldn't help but question it a bit.