The Devilish Chip Behind Your Expanding Waist Line

The Fourth of July is here, which means many of us will be participating in potlucks, picnics, and BBQ feasts that far surpass the carrying capacity of a single table. But recent studies suggest that one sneaky side should be excluded this year – the potato chip.

According to the New England Journal of Medicine, potato chips were the biggest source of creeping weight gain in the United States. In fact, these crispy snacks plague us more than soda, candy, or ice cream. A daily serving of these dietary offenders contributed 1.69 pounds in weight gain over a four-year period. Potatoes (other than chips) followed in second place with 1.28 pounds, and sugary drinks came in third at an average gain of 1 pound.

Lauren Barkan, a registered dietitian at Bon Secours In Motion Physical Therapy and Sports Performance, wasn’t at all surprised by these findings. “Weight loss is all about portion control,” says Barkan, “and potato chips in general are difficult to say no to.” Barkan warns that, when it comes to snacks, it can be difficult to eat just one: “I always tell my clients that 1 is too many and 100 isn’t enough when it comes to potato chips.” These snacks are often left out at parties and social functions, which makes them that much more difficult to avoid.

So what can a struggling potato chip addict do to help beat the habit and avoid the yearly pounds? Barkan recommends eating more fruits and raw vegetables to fill you up and keep your hands busy. Fruits and veggies can “satisfy that sweet or crunchy craving” while you work to break your bad behaviors. “Once you get in the habit of skipping the chip aisle at the grocery store,” she says, “it’s easier to regain your discipline and self-control. In the long run, that feels better than any chip tastes!”

+ Struggling to eat right? Learn more about nutrition and weight loss program at Bon Secours In Motion.