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In the core region of Japan where ramen is deeply cherished, scientists have raised concerns through a study indicating that consuming this popular noodle dish three or more times per week could pose certain health dangers.

A collaborative research project carried out by universities located in the northeastern part of Yamagata Prefecture — known for having some of the highest ramen consumption rates in the country — revealed that individuals who regularly consume ramen are approximately 1.5 times more likely to die than those who eat it once or twice a week.

Nevertheless, the researchers emphasized that the results were not statistically significant enough to classify ramen as a definitive risk, pointing out that further research is required to establish the connection between frequent noodle consumption and health effects.

The image became even more unclear when the team discovered a slightly increased risk of death among individuals who consumed ramen less than once a month. At first, this might seem like a case of moderation causing issues, but the researchers believe it indicates something completely different: individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, may already be steering clear of ramen to comply with their doctors’ recommendations.

A research project tracked 6,725 individuals from Yamagata Prefecture who were 40 years old or older over a period of approximately four and a half years. Participants were categorized based on their ramen consumption frequency, ranging from less than once a month to three times or more per week, while accounting for other health and lifestyle variables. It was found that the lowest risk of death was associated with those who consumed ramen once or twice a week.

Some groups faced increased dangers. Individuals under 70 who consumed ramen three or more times per week had over twice the risk of death compared to those who ate it once or twice a week. Regular ramen enthusiasts who also drank alcohol frequently experienced an even greater risk, reaching 2.7 times.

“The research doesn’t necessarily imply that consuming ramen is harmful,” stated Tsuneo Konta, a professor from the School of Medical Science at Yamagata University. He recommended avoiding drinking the salty broth left at the bottom of the bowl and emphasized maintaining a well-balanced diet.

The results were released in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging during August.