If you’re a fan of chips, then you’re probably familiar with Natsos. These crispy, fried snacks come in a variety of flavors and are marketed as a quick and easy snack for when you’re on-the-go.
Unfortunately, Natsos are loaded with fat and calories, making them a less-than-ideal choice when it comes to snacking.
What are Natsos?
Natsos are a type of snack food that are made from potato starch and other ingredients. They are cut into small pieces and then fried in oil, which gives them their crunchy texture.
Some varieties of Natsos are flavored with spices or cheese, while others are simply salted.
The Nutritional Facts About Natsos
One of the biggest issues with Natsos is their nutritional content. A single serving of Natsos (which is roughly equivalent to one small bag) contains around 150-200 calories.
That might not sound like a lot, but it adds up quickly if you’re eating multiple servings.
Natsos are also high in fat. A single serving can contain as much as 12-15 grams of fat, which is around 20% of your recommended daily intake.
Most of this fat is in the form of saturated and trans fats, which are the kinds of fat that raise your cholesterol levels and increase your risk of heart disease.
Sodium Content
In addition to being high in fat and calories, Natsos are also loaded with sodium. A single serving of Natsos can contain as much as 250-300 milligrams of sodium, which is around 15% of your daily recommended intake.
Eating too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.
Why are Natsos So Addictive?
Despite their less-than-stellar nutritional content, Natsos are still a popular snack food. One of the reasons for this is their addictive nature. Natsos are designed to be crispy and crunchy, which makes them satisfying to eat.
They also come in a wide variety of flavors, which can make them appealing to different taste preferences.
Another reason why Natsos are addictive is because they are high in fat and salt. Studies have shown that when we eat foods that are high in fat and salt, our brains release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is associated with pleasure and reward.
This can create a cycle of addiction, where we crave more and more of these types of foods to get the same feel-good response.
Are There Any Health Benefits to Eating Natsos?
Unfortunately, there are not many health benefits to be had from eating Natsos. While they do contain some potassium (which is good for your heart), the amounts are generally too small to make a significant impact.
Additionally, the high fat and calorie content of Natsos means that they can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.
What are Some Alternatives to Natsos?
If you’re looking for a snack that is healthier than Natsos, there are plenty of options available. Here are some ideas:.
- Fruit – Fresh fruit is a great option for when you’re craving something sweet. Try slicing up an apple or banana and pairing it with some nut butter for a satisfying snack.
- Vegetables – Raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers are a great way to get some crunch in your snack without all the added fat and calories.
- Popcorn – Air-popped popcorn is a great alternative to Natsos. It’s still crunchy but is much lower in fat and calories.
- Rice cakes – Rice cakes are a low-calorie option that can be paired with a variety of toppings.
Conclusion
While Natsos may be a quick and convenient snack, they are not the healthiest option available. With their high fat, calorie, and sodium content, they can contribute to a variety of health problems over time.
If you’re looking for a snack that is both satisfying and healthy, try some of the alternatives listed above.