It has to have something to do work that. I'll Google the science behind it. In the noodles it doesn't change the flavor much. As a drink, the taste depends if there's lime or not... But you definitely want to add some flavors or make some kind of concoction because it's kind of earthy. Thais just put a lot of sugar and it tastes great but probably not healthy lol.
They put sugar in everything! They even give you a side of sugar with pad Thai!