Local doctors and pediatricians say they’re treating more kids with upset stomachs. The reason in the growing number of cases is children eating excessive amounts of flaming hot chips.
Carol Harvey, a dietician at Driscoll Children’s Hospital says spicy pepper found in flaming hot chips can cause a number of health risks when eaten in large amounts.
"Some of the symptoms that you might see are abdominal pain, burning in the stomach area, even hiccuping," Harvey said.
Harvey adds, children can experience acute gastritis, an inflammation of the lining of the stomach which causes abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. She adds flaming hot chips can also cause colored stool because of the dye in the chips which could mistaken for bleeding.
However like most other junk foods, moderation is key. Harvey says the risks associated with eating the spicy snack are higher when more is eaten.
Some tips to avoid health problems caused after eating flaming hot chips: avoid eating the snack regularly, eat other or original flavored chips, or eat in moderation by buying a smaller bag.
