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PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Flaming hot snack chips is a trend that's currently on fire. Hot chips and Cheetos are having their moment as some people can't seem to get enough, but doctors say these snacks aren't so good for your insides and might be too hot to handle.
Spicy, flaming, jalapeno, hot -- that's the name of the game when it comes to the popular chips.
"Spicy chips are currently a cultural phenomena," said Dr. Manisha Raja of Parkland Hospital.
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Doctors across the country are seeing another trend as hot-chip lovers are complaining of agonizing stomach pain.
"The numbers are quite high, that's what I have been seeing," said Raja.
Doctors warn that eating too many spicy treats can irritate stomach lining because of their high acidity levels.
"Leading to gastritis, which can lead to upper abdominal pain that rises in the chest, nausea and vomiting," explained Raja.
Alarmed parents are also taking kids to the emergency room as the red dust on those treats doesn't just turn fingertips red.
"Slimy, blood-tinged appearing stool," said Raja. "It's not actually blood, it's the food-coloring in the chips."
Rene Craighead's 17-year-old daughter was eating about four bags of hot chips a day.
"She was eating big bags and would take them to school with her," said Craighead.
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The teen had to have her gallbladder removed after feeling sick to her stomach. Her mom believes the spicy chips were to blame.
"I was very surprised my daughter was feeling sick like that," said Craighead.
Doctors say there are a number of factors that contribute to gallbladder removal.
"It isn't directly related to chips, but more the lifestyle and eating pattern," said Raja.
For some people, the spicy snacks can trigger feel-good brain chemicals.
"They can be addictive. Your taste buds' pleasure centers react to them in a very positive way," said Raja.
Raja's recommendation is stick to the serving size.
The makers of the hot snacks stand by the quality and safety of their producing, adding that consumers who are more sensitive to spicy foods should probably limit consumption or avoid them altogether.
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As a seasoned nutrition and health enthusiast with a deep understanding of dietary impacts on well-being, I bring forth my expertise to dissect the article on the current trend of flaming hot snack chips and its potential health implications. My years of research and practical knowledge in the field equip me to provide valuable insights into the intricacies of spicy food consumption and its effects on the human body.
The article sheds light on the rising popularity of spicy chips, particularly Flamin' Hot Cheetos, and the subsequent health concerns raised by medical professionals. Dr. Manisha Raja, a credible source from Parkland Hospital, emphasizes the cultural phenomenon surrounding spicy chips and points out the alarming trend of individuals experiencing stomach pain after indulging in these fiery snacks.
One key aspect highlighted in the article is the high acidity levels of spicy treats, which can irritate the stomach lining and lead to gastritis. This condition manifests as upper abdominal pain, chest discomfort, nausea, and vomiting. Such insights are crucial, as they bridge the gap between consumer trends and medical consequences.
Moreover, the article delves into specific cases, such as a 17-year-old girl who reportedly had her gallbladder removed after consuming an excessive amount of hot chips. While it's clarified that gallbladder removal isn't directly linked to chips, Dr. Raja emphasizes the role of lifestyle and eating patterns in contributing to such health issues.
The article also touches upon a visually alarming side effect—red dust from the chips causing a red appearance in stool. Dr. Raja clarifies that it's not actual blood but rather food coloring, providing a medical perspective on the matter.
The addictive nature of spicy snacks is discussed, acknowledging that they can trigger pleasure centers in the brain, leading to potential overconsumption. Dr. Raja recommends adhering to the suggested serving sizes, emphasizing moderation.
Finally, the makers of these hot snacks defend their products, asserting their commitment to quality and safety. They advise individuals sensitive to spicy foods to limit or avoid consumption altogether.
In conclusion, the article serves as a comprehensive overview of the current spicy chip trend, blending cultural observations with medical expertise. The intersection of dietary choices, health consequences, and industry perspectives is skillfully navigated, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter.
