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| Microwaves have a bad reputation — rumor has it that they can disrupt the quality of your food *and* your health. Reader Susan B. (and I) want to know: Is this fact or fiction? Let’s discuss this once and for all. |
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Be well,
Morgan Mandriota
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |
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Written by Morgan Mandriota
January 20, 2025 • 3 min read |
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| To nuke or not to nuke, that is the question |
| Microwaves turn electricity into electromagnetic waves, which cause food molecules to vibrate and spin around and clash against each other until they heat up enough to cook your meal. Questioning whether or not this is safe? Try not to worry. A lot of the myths we’ve been fed about microwaves are bogus. |
| For starters, microwave radiation isn’t the same as the radiation associated with nuclear disasters or atomic bombs. It produces non-ionizing radiation, which is similar to (but stronger than) the radiation coming from your cellphone. The metal shields and window screens help to prevent that radiation from leaving the oven, so the risk of any bodily harm is low. |
| All forms of cooking reduce a food’s nutrient value. Believe it or not, microwaves tend to preserve nutrients very well! This is because cooking times are generally short, and the temperature is relatively low. |
| However, potential nutrient loss can depend on what you’re cooking. According to a 2020 study, microwaving broccoli increased levels of an anticarcinogenic compound called sulforaphane. On the other hand, an older study from 2001 found that microwaving garlic for 1 minute destroyed some of its cancer-fighting properties.
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| As always, there are some risks to beware of when using a microwave. For example, due to their lower heat and shorter cooking time, they may be less effective at killing bacteria and pathogens that can lead to food poisoning. Consider these other safety precautions when using a microwave to protect your health and food:
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- Avoid overheating or underheating your food. (Follow the instructions!)
- Try not to stand too close to the microwave or press your face against the window.
- Never heat baby formula, or food or drinks for small children, to prevent the risk of burns.
- Only use materials that are labeled as microwave-safe.
- Be careful while removing liquids, which may overheat or explode out of a container and burn you.
- Mix what you cooked and let it cool for a while to avoid scorching your mouth.
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