Snacks, tortilla chips, made with olestra, nacho cheese
Category: Snacks Characteristics: Low Fat
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
90
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 74 (82.0%) |
| Protein | 9.6 (10.6%) |
| Fat | 9.0 (10.0%) |
| Total | 90 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrate | 18 (65.2%) |
| Protein | 2.4 (8.4%) |
| Fat | 1.0 (3.5%) |
| Ash | 0.9 (3.1%) |
| Water | 0.5 (1.7%) |
| Total | 28 (100%) |
Serving: 1 oz [28g]
Benefits
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Low in fat and calories compared to regular tortilla chips since it is made with olestra, a fat substitute
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Provides fiber from the whole grain tortilla
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Contains B vitamins and minerals from the corn and wheat flour
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Can be part of an overall healthy diet when eaten in moderation
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The nacho cheese flavoring adds umami and satisfies cravings for savory snacks
Risks
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Olestra can decrease the body's absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins A, D, E and K. This can lead to vitamin deficiencies over time
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Olestra may cause abdominal cramping and loose stools due to its laxative effect in some people
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The nacho cheese flavoring may contain unhealthy trans fats which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol and lower HDL (good) cholesterol
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The sodium content of the nacho cheese flavoring can be high which may negatively impact blood pressure control in susceptible individuals
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As a processed snack food, it provides empty calories with little nutritional value. Overconsumption can contribute to weight gain
Additional Information
Snacks, specifically tortilla chips, that are labeled as low fat and made with olestra, and have a nacho cheese flavor, have both nutritional benefits and risks. Let's take a closer look at these attributes:
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Low Fat: One of the primary benefits of low-fat tortilla chips is that they contain less fat compared to regular tortilla chips. This can be advantageous for individuals who are watching their fat intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight. Consuming excessive amounts of dietary fat can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease and obesity. Low-fat tortilla chips can be a healthier alternative for those looking to reduce their fat consumption.
Nutritional Risks:
1. Olestra: Olestra is a fat substitute used in some low-fat snacks, including tortilla chips. While it helps reduce the fat content, it does come with some potential risks. Olestra is not absorbed by the body, which means it passes through the digestive system largely intact. As a result, it can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, loose stools, and abdominal cramping. These effects can vary from person to person, but they can be quite uncomfortable for some individuals. It is important to note that these side effects are more likely to occur when consuming large quantities of snacks made with olestra.
Additional Attributes:
1. Nacho Cheese Flavor: The nacho cheese flavor in these tortilla chips is often achieved through the use of artificial flavorings and additives. While this enhances the taste, it may not offer any significant nutritional benefits. It is important to read the ingredient list to check for any potentially harmful additives or excessive sodium content. Consuming excessive amounts of sodium can contribute to high blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.
In summary, low-fat tortilla chips made with olestra and flavored with nacho cheese offer a reduced fat option compared to regular tortilla chips. This can be beneficial for individuals looking to manage their fat intake. However, the use of olestra as a fat substitute can lead to gastrointestinal side effects, particularly when consumed in large amounts. Additionally, the nacho cheese flavoring may contain artificial additives and excessive sodium, which can pose potential health risks if consumed in excess. As with any snack, moderation is key, and it is crucial to consider the overall balance of one's diet and lifestyle when making food choices.