According to a 2020 Statista survey,85% of the American population eats potato chips.

They may be popular, but they’re not good for you.

But how can you tell?

woman eating potato chips

Shutterstock

You’re eating too many potato chips if you constantly feel bloated and puffy.

This is due to water retention from excess salt."

You may also feel puffy and bloated due to weight gain triggered by eating too many high-calorie chips.

“The size of chip bags is getting bigger and bigger.

Manufacturers know it’s hard to stop eating chips once you start.

First, what do you consider to be “too many?”

More than 1 serving a day is too much, shares Dr. Lehman.

One serving is 1 ounce or 18 chips.

“Most traditional potato chips are seasoned with a large amount of salt and oil.

Larger doses are proven unhealthy and will quickly lead to weight gain,” Dr. Parcells says.

Why potato chips can make you feel puffy and bloated.

Dr. Lehman tells us that most symptoms of excess potato chip consumption are primarily related to excess sodium intake.

“Potato chips are made with refined oils and processed carbohydrates, which are highly inflammatory.

“Potato chips generally have between 120 and 180 milligrams of sodium per ounce.

In the long term, this can cause high blood pressure.

Does this mean I shouldn’t eat potato chips?

Potatoes are actually decently healthy.

(Yes, even though they’re “white” and have traditionally been associated with unhealthy carbs.)

and vitamin C (23% DV) when eaten with the skin.

Potatochipson the other hand, are a different story.

“Overall, potato chips aren’t a health food.

But you’re free to’t really blame potato chips on all of your health problems.

“Aside from extreme circumstances (such as a primarily potato chip-based diet!

What are some healthy alternatives to potato chips?

You don’t even need to have a 1:1 substitute for potato chips to improve your health status.