What Happens To Your Body When You Eat Too Many Chips

Eating too much of anything is usually not a good idea. And, as you may have guessed, this goes for chips as well, especially if your taste buds are partial to salty, fatty potato chips. 

If you're guilty of being a chip chomper, though, you're in good company. A 2020 study revealed that 85% of Americans eat potato chips (via Eat This Not That). But potato chips traditionally have a lot of fat and calories, and snacking them regularly can do a number on your body, potentially leading to obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. In fact, just one ounce of plain potato chips can contain 10 grams of fat (via SFGate).

Additionally, consuming a lot of potato chips can cause cancer in certain cases due to a chemical called acrylamide. Acrylamide is used in various industries such as oil drilling, cosmetics and food processing, and it can also form naturally in certain kinds of starchy foods after they have been cooked at high temperatures —and this includes potato chips (via the American Cancer Society).

If you've started feeling less chipper about potato chips, not to worry. There are plenty of crunchy alternatives out there that will not only satisfy your taste buds, but also pack a few health benefits.

Plantain chips can make a healthier swap. A version made by Barnana contains healthy, organic ingredients that include, of course, the plantains, as well as coconut oil and Himalayan pink salt. These chips are a great option for vegans and those on the paleo diet, and they are also low in sodium, so there's a lot to love here. If plantains aren't your thing, a crispy, grain-free tortilla chip made with cassava flour could be a delicious choice. Another plus? These tortilla chips are usually tasty enough on their own that they don't even need an accompanying dip (via Healthline).

If you just can't find a swap for your beloved potato chip, you still have options. Just be more thoughtful about which potato chip brand you're choosing by checking the ingredients. Be sure to look for chips made in oil that is low in saturated fat and sodium, and natural chips that contain little to no artificial ingredients and are less processed than common potato chips (via Livestrong).

But remember, just because you opt for a healthier chip doesn't mean it's okay for you to eat more of it than the recommended portion. So, whatever your chip of choice, be sure to munch in moderation.