Pregnancy comes with mood swings, cravings, and changes in the body. Many women crave something spicy, salty, and sour, as it is a part of the pregnancy stages. One of the most craved items among women nowadays is Doritos. Yes, you hear it right. I see many women eating it during pregnancy because of its strong and spicy flavors. The ingredients mainly include ground corn, vegetable oil, and bold seasonings. The best-selling varieties of Doritos include classic Nacho Cheese to extra-spicy options like Flamin’ Hot. Doritos is popular for its crunchy texture and intense taste.
The spices and crunch make it the best choice among many people, especially pregnant women. Since it is a processed snack that is high in sodium, artificial flavors, preservatives, and sometimes food dyes, so many women became curious whether it’s good to eat it in pregnancy or not. The most searched question is, can I eat Doritos while pregnant? To find an answer, we should examine the nutritional value of the chips and their ingredients, as understanding what you consume during pregnancy is crucial. What’s inside the chips can help them decide how often and in what quantity to enjoy them.
Ingredients in Flamming Hot Doritos
Before consuming any processed food item like chips, the first thing you need to do is check the ingredients used, especially in pregnancy when everything you eat counts. Doritos such as Flamin’ Hot varieties include ingredients like ground corn, vegetable oil, maltodextrin, salt, spices, sugar, monosodium glutamate (MSG), artificial colors such as Red 40 or Yellow 6, and chili pepper extracts.
All these ingredients make the flavor tangy, spicy, and crunchy; this is why many women crave it. Mostly ingredients are safe in pregnancy when you eat the chips in moderate amounts or occasionally, but ingredients such as artificial colors and MSG may trigger sensitivity in some individuals who are allergic to artificial additives.
Also, the spicy content of these chips can irritate the stomach or cause acid reflux, which is very common in pregnancy.
Nutritional Profile of Flamming Hot Doritos
If we talk about nutrients, well, a processed food item like Hot Doritos isn’t rich in nutrients; however, they do provide calories from fats and carbohydrates. A single serving of Doritos chips contains high sodium, fat, protein, fiber, and artificial additives.
The high amount of sodium leads to bloating or water retention. The moderate amount of fat comes mostly from vegetable oil. The chips are low in protein and fiber, which means you will crave more as they didn’t make you feel full. Artificial additives are used as enhancers, preservatives, and food dyes.
After looking at the nutrient profile, I would say you can occasionally or moderately eat Doritos in pregnancy. Don’t consider it as a daily healthy snack because it lacks essential nutrients.
Why I Crave Doritos in Pregnancy?
When we talk about pregnancy, the first thing that comes to everyone’s mind is craving because it is very common and takes place due to hormonal changes, mineral needs, and mood swings. So if you are craving something that is spicy and salty in nature, like Doritos, it is completely fine; however, you need to look at the reasons why you crave Doritos in pregnancy.
The first reason can be your body wants salt, as Doritos are high in sodium (salty), and many women crave salty snacks in pregnancy because of increasing blood volume.
The second possible reason is the crunch. Yes, you heard it right; many women crave salty and crunchy snacks in pregnancy, as they help in reducing stress and satisfying cravings.
The third reason can be your taste preferences change due to hormone changes; you crave something that is spicy or bold in nature.
The fourth reason, and the important one to look for, is low energy levels. Since Doritos are high in quick calories, and due to low energy levels, your body craves Doritos for a fast energy boost.
Craving spicy, salty, and crunchy snacks during pregnancy is a very normal thing. They aren’t always a sign of deficiency. Your body just craves different food items in pregnancy.
Can I Eat Doritos While Pregnant?
The answer is yes, you can eat Doritos while pregnant, but in a moderate amount or occasionally. Most women became curious that eating a spicy snack can affect the baby. Well, eating a spicy snack in a moderate quantity is perfectly safe for the baby and causes no harm or effect in the development; however, you need to keep something in mind.
In pregnancy your body goes through many physical changes, especially the belly area; it grows, and your digestive system becomes slow and sensitive, so when you consume spicy food items like hot Doritos in large quantities, it can lead to heartburn or acid reflux. Eating hot Doritos in the second and third trimesters can make these health conditions worse.
Doritos is a processed food item, so it contains a high amount of salt, and if you eat something that is high in sodium content, especially in pregnancy, your body will react to it, leading to increased bloating, swelling, and thirst.
Doritos includes artificial colors and flavors, which are safe to consume in pregnancy if you eat them in a moderate amount; however, if you are someone who is allergic to artificial flavors, then avoiding them during pregnancy is better.
If you’re someone who has a sensitive stomach, then go for the alternative options, and if you feel fine even after consuming spicy snacks like Doritos, then it’s fine to eat them in pregnancy.
What Happens If You Eat Doritos While Pregnant?
According to my personal experience and other pregnant women I talk to about Doritos, there are no serious health issues they face after eating it in any stage of pregnancy. Snacks like Doritos, which are yummy, salty, and crunchy, are the first choice of pregnant women, and they are completely safe if consumed in a moderate amount. However, as I always say, not everything works for everyone, so here are some possible things you need to notice while consuming chips like Doritos.
Doritos, especially the spicy ones, may irritate your stomach and lead to heartburn. This is something common because digestion becomes slow in pregnancy.
Since Doritos are high in sodium, it’s possible you may face dehydration or feel swelling in different parts of the body. However, this won’t harm the baby but will make you uncomfortable and stressed.
If you have a sensitive stomach, then you may face bloating, gas, or mild discomfort. This varies from mom to mom.
Doritos are high in fats and carbs; after consuming them, you may feel full. However, after some time, you again crave them because the energy doesn’t last long.
In summary, consuming Doritos during pregnancy is not harmful; they won’t harm the baby, cause complications, or affect fetal development or lead to foodborne illness. Just consume Doritos in moderate amounts and occasionally to stay healthy.
What are the Possible Side Effects of Eating Doritos?
Doritos is something that many women crave in pregnancy, as it is very satisfying because of its flavor, taste, and crunch; however, it is a processed snack, and eating too much of it can lead to some side effects, especially in pregnancy when your stomach is already getting sensitive and can be easily triggered by anything. Eating Doritos occasionally is generally safe; you may notice few side effects as follows if eaten in a large quantity.
1. Increased Heartburn and Acid Reflux
In pregnancy your digestive system becomes slow naturally and relaxes the muscles that keep stomach acid in place. Snacks like Doritos are high in seasoning, oils, and spices, especially the hot flavors. When you eat them in large quantities, they can irritate your stomach lining and lead to a burning sensation, which many women face in pregnancy if they consume something that is high in spice content. You may also experience a sour taste in your mouth and indigestion soon after eating.
2. Bloating, Gas & Stomach Discomfort
Doritos is a processed food item made by deep frying in oil and coating with artificial seasonings. This combination can cause pregnancy-related digestive issues like bloating and gas. You may also feel a tight, swollen belly, rumbling, and mild stomach aches after consuming them in high quantities.
3. Swelling Due to High Sodium
Since Doritos already contain a high amount of sodium in a single packet, when you consume them in a large amount, it can lead to swelling in different parts of the body, including puffy fingers and swollen ankles or feet. High consumption of sodium can also lead to increased thirst. The reason behind all these health issues is that in pregnancy your body already retains more water to support blood volume.
4. Potential Headaches in Sensitive Moms
Some moms are sensitive to MSG or artificial flavors and seasonings, which are used in Doritos. They are completely safe in moderation, but eating a high amount can trigger headaches or migraines in certain individuals.
5. Temporary Spike in Blood Sugar
Doritos aren’t only high in sodium but also in refined carbs and low in fiber. This combination makes them digest quickly and raise blood sugar levels, which causes energy crashes during pregnancy. Women who have gestational diabetes should avoid eating Doritos or eat them occasionally. It can also lead to an increase in cravings, which may cause unhealthy weight gain later.
6. Low Nutritional Value
Doritos are a fun food and a satisfying one when it comes to pregnancy; however, eating them can increase hunger, which leads to overeating, as they are low in calories, high in fat and salt, and lacking in vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber. Eating Doritos won’t harm your baby, but it isn’t a replacement for healthy snacks on a daily basis.
7. Possible Trigger for Nausea (Especially First Trimester)
In the early stages of pregnancy, many women face nausea with strong smells, intense seasoning, or greasy snacks, and Doritos have all these elements. So eating Doritos in the first trimester can lead to nausea and queasiness.
Already Eaten Doritos in High Amount While Pregnant? Here’s What to Do
While Doritos are completely safe to eat during pregnancy, do so in a moderate amount. However, if you accidentally or occasionally eat them in a high amount, then don’t panic. Many women eat snacks in high amounts sometimes when they crave more, so eating snacks like Doritos once in a large quantity causes no harm to the baby.
Stay hydrated
After consuming a high amount of Doritos, the first thing you need to do is drink a high amount of water to flush out the excessive sodium that got into your body from the Doritos. Staying hydrated can also reduce swelling, ease digestive discomfort, and prevent headaches. Try to drink water the whole day in small sips instead of drinking it in large amounts.
Avoid other Spicy Food Items
Eating a food item like Doritos in large quantities that is high in spicy flavors can trigger your stomach, so try to avoid consuming any other spicy or greasy foods for the rest of the day. Eat light food items like fruit, yogurt, oatmeal, or toast. Sit straight for at least an hour to prevent heartburn and let your digestive system calm down.
Eat a Healthy and Balanced Meal
After some hours of consuming a high amount of Doritos, go for a healthy and balanced meal that includes items based on protein, fiber, and healthy fats, like eggs, chicken, beans, lentils, whole grains, vegetables, fruit, avocado, nuts, and olive oil. All these food items will help in stabilizing blood sugar levels and also keep you full for the whole day.
Don’t Stress About It
After consuming Doritos in high amounts, try to stay calm and don’t stress out, as it’s not good for you or your baby’s health during pregnancy. Just keep in mind Doritos won’t harm your baby even if you consume a high amount once.
Temporary Symptoms
You may feel a few short-term effects after eating a large amount of Doritos, like heartburn, thirst, bloating, mild stomach discomfort, and puffy fingers or feet. They will go naturally in some hours. You can also reduce these effects by drinking plenty of water and walking gently.
Move Your Body a Little
If you eat something in a large amount, like Doritos chips, then go for a gentle walk, as it will help in improving digestion, reducing bloating, stabilizing blood sugar, and easing discomfort. No need to walk for hours; just go for 5 to 10 minutes.
Save the remaining Doritos
To save yourself from any further side effects, try to eat Doritos in portions, like putting some in a small bowl in a single serving, or go for small snack-size bags next time. This way you can enjoy the snack in moderate quantity and satisfy your craving.
Also Read: Can You Eat Subway While Pregnant? Safety Guide for Expecting Moms
Better Alternatives to Doritos for Expecting Moms
While Doritos are completely safe to enjoy in pregnancy, if you’re someone who prefers healthier, gentler snacks that still satisfy cravings without the extra salt, artificial flavors, or stomach discomfort, then you can go for the following healthy alternatives.
1. Baked Tortilla Chips With Salsa or Guacamole
The first one we have on the list is baked tortilla chips, as they are crunchy like Doritos. They are low in fat and easier on the stomach. For a perfect snack, you can pair baked tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole.
2. Popcorn (Air-Popped or Lightly Seasoned)
The second alternative you can go for is popcorn, as they are very light in weight and crunchy like chips. Popcorn is rich in fiber and very low in calories, which makes it a perfect alternative. All you need is to add homemade spices or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without artificial ingredients.
3. Whole-Grain Crackers With Cheese
If you are craving Doritos just because they are savory and salty, then you can go for the whole-grain crackers with cheese combination, as they provide you the same taste. This alternative provides protein and calcium to the body, supports bone development, and keeps you feeling fuller for a long time.
4. Veggie Chips or Veggie Sticks
If you want the same crunch as Doritos but in a healthy way, then go for veggie chips or veggie sticks like baked beet chips, sweet potato chips, zucchini chips, and carrot sticks with hummus. All these alternatives are gentle on the stomach and satisfy your cravings in a healthy way.
5. Homemade Nacho-Style Chips
You can also make Doritos-style chips at home by just taking whole tortilla pieces baked with light seasoning like paprika, garlic powder, a tiny pinch of chili, and a sprinkle of cheese. This way you can control the sodium intake in the body.
6. Rice Cakes With Flavorful Toppings
If you crave snacks in pregnancy, then rice cakes can be an excellent choice. You can pair rice cake with different other items like avocado, hummus, cucumber, tomato, cheese, peanut butter, and banana (for sweet cravings).
7. Nuts or Trail Mix
If you want something flavorful and filling, nuts may satisfy the craving quicker than chips. These nuts provide nutrients like healthy fats, protein, magnesium, and iron, which are important during pregnancy. Make sure to do portion control while consuming them.
8. Yogurt Dip With Fresh Veggies
If your craving is just based on flavor instead of chips, then a creamy dip with crunchy veggies can be the best alternative for you. Try to pair Greek yogurt dip with vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, cucumber slices, and snap peas. This combination provides you hydration and is gentle on the stomach.
9. Pita Chips With Hummus
Another perfect and balanced replacement of Doritos chips. This combination will give you the same crunch but with protein, iron, and fiber, which are important during pregnancy. They are less salty than Doritos, full of nutrition, and gentle on the stomach.
10. Mildly Spiced Snack Mix
If you crave Doritos just because of the seasoning, then you can go for Mildly Spiced Snack Mix. You can make it by simply mixing whole-grain cereal, pretzels, lightly roasted nuts, and a sprinkle of paprika or mild chili. This mixture will satisfy your craving without stressing.
How to Consume Doritos Safely (Tips)
Craving spicy, salty, and crunchy food items like Doritos is very normal during pregnancy, and it is even safe to consume; all you need is to know how much and how often you can eat them.
The first thing you need to look at is portion control. Snacks like Doritos are easy to overeat, especially when it’s a pregnancy craving. Try to eat chips from a small bag instead of a big one for more portion control; you can add a small serving into the bowl.
The second thing you need to do is try to choose milder flavors, as the spicy varieties like Flamin’ Hot can lead to health issues like heartburn, indigestion, and nausea. If you already have a sensitive stomach, then it’s best to go for a flavor like Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch.
It is recommended not to eat spicy processed food items like Doritos early in the morning or on an empty stomach. Try to pair Doritos with something balanced like yogurt, a sandwich, a glass of milk, or fruit slices. All these food items will calm your stomach and save you from acid irritation and blood sugar spikes.
Ensure you stay hydrated after consuming Doritos, as they are high in sodium. Additionally, staying hydrated during pregnancy can help alleviate headaches and fatigue.
If you’re in the second or third trimester, it’s possible you will face heartburn after eating a spicy item like hot Doritos; however, if you still want to eat them, try to mix hot Doritos with cheese Doritos. This will reduce the heat.
Eating Doritos once in a while is fine, but don’t try to replace them with nutrient-rich food items, which are necessary in pregnancy. You can also go for the alternatives I mentioned in this guide.
If you are someone who is allergic to MSG or artificial dyes, then notice how your body reacts. Stop eating Doritos if you face symptoms like headaches, nausea, skin flushing, and upset stomach.
Always check the expiry date before consuming any snack, especially in pregnancy, because expired chips can cause stomach discomfort.
Avoid eating Doritos before sleeping, as the spicy snacks can trigger heartburn, making it difficult to sleep. Try to consume them at least 3 hours before bed.
If you want to consume Doritos on a daily basis, then make sure to add nutrient-rich food items as well in your daily meal, like lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats. All these food items will balance the effects of Doritos.
Pregnancy Snack Ideas Backed by Nutrition Experts (List)
If you want to eat snacks suggested by experts in pregnancy, then I have a whole list for you as follows:
- Greek yogurt with fresh berries.
- Apple slices with peanut butter.
- Hummus with carrot or cucumber sticks.
- Whole-grain crackers with cheese.
- Hard-boiled eggs.
- Mixed nuts or trail mix.
- Cottage cheese with pineapple.
- Avocado on whole-grain toast.
- Air-popped popcorn.
- Smoothies based on fruit and yogurt.
- Edamame.
- Mixture of oatmeal cups or oats.
- Banana with almond butter.
- Roasted chickpeas.
- String cheese or mini cheese cubes.
- Fresh fruit salad.
- Chia pudding.
- Whole-grain granola bars (low sugar).
- Pita chips with guacamole.
- Rice cakes with hummus or avocado.
When to Consult Your Doctor?
Eating Doritos during pregnancy is usually safe, but always consult your doctor if you face any situation as follows:
- If you face heartburn for a long time, like for hours after consuming Doritos.
- Swelling is very common in pregnancy; however, if you face sudden or extreme swelling in your hands, feet, or face after eating Doritos, go to the doctor as soon as possible.
- If you feel constant headaches or migraines after eating chips, then consult your doctor.
- If you already have gestational diabetes, then consult with your doctor before eating Doritos, as they are high in refined carbs.
- If you face issues like strong pain in the stomach, vomiting, or ongoing nausea, then you need immediate medical help.
- If you eat Doritos and experience allergic reactions like skin rashes, itching, or swelling of lips or throat, and difficulty breathing, go to the doctor.
General Health Perspectives on Doritos
While the real-life reviews show that Doritos are a beloved craving, health experts generally advise that processed snack foods like Doritos should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy as part of a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.
- Junk Food Caution: Chips, including Doritos, are high in fat, salt, and sometimes unhealthy oils (like Omega-6 fats/linoleic acid), which can contribute to inflammation.
- Acrylamide Concern: Some studies suggest that the chemical acrylamide which forms in high-carbohydrate foods cooked at high temperatures like doritos could be linked to lower birth weight if consumed frequently in large amounts.
FAQ: Can I Eat Spicy Doritos While Pregnant?
1. Is it safe to eat Doritos (especially spicy ones) during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat Doritos during pregnancy, but in a moderate amount or occasionally. Make sure you don’t consider Doritos as a replacement for healthy food items.
2. Will eating spicy Doritos hurt my baby?
No, the spices in the Doritos won’t harm your baby; however, they can give you discomfort if you eat them in large amounts. They can lead to heartburn or stomach upset.
3. Can spicy chips cause heartburn or indigestion when I’m pregnant?
Yes, spicy chips like Doritos may cause heartburn in some moms-to-be because in pregnancy your digestion becomes slow and your digestive system becomes sensitive; eating spicy food like Doritos can cause burning or discomfort.
4. How many spicy Doritos is too many during pregnancy?
Eating Doritos in a small amount is good in pregnancy; however, if you eat Doritos in a large amount, it can lead to increased bloating, heartburn, and sodium intake, which can trigger blood sugar levels.
5. Can eating too many Doritos raise my blood pressure or cause swelling?
Yes, eating a large amount of Doritos can cause high blood pressure and swelling in areas like hands, feet, and ankles because Doritos are high in sodium.
6. Do additives or MSG in Doritos pose a risk during pregnancy?
Some women are sensitive to MSG or food coloring and may face issues like headaches, flushing, or stomach upset. However, these issues are common during pregnancy; they won’t harm the baby or create any complications in pregnancy.
7. Can spicy foods (like Doritos) trigger labor?
No. Eating spicy Doritos will not trigger labor; it comes at the right time. So cravings for spicy foods are normal and have nothing to do with labor timing.
8. Could spicy Doritos affect my blood sugar?
Yes, if you already have gestational diabetes and are eating Doritos in high amounts, then you may notice effects on blood sugar levels.
9. What if I have nausea or morning sickness—are spicy Doritos okay then?
Eating Doritos on an empty stomach isn’t recommended; however, some women do eat spicy chips in the morning to ease nausea. It may vary from person to person. Always notice how your body reacts.
10. Are there any benefits to giving in to a spicy Doritos craving while pregnant?
No, they are just to satisfy cravings occasionally, which leads to improved mood and makes you feel more comfortable.
11. Are there healthier ways to enjoy that Doritos-style spicy crunch?
Yes! You can try baked tortilla chips, air-popped popcorn with paprika, or homemade whole-grain chips lightly seasoned with chili or garlic powder.
12. When should I talk to my doctor about eating spicy chips?
Always consult your doctor if you face frequent heartburn, if you have gestational diabetes, or if you face rare swelling or high blood pressure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, can I eat Doritos while pregnant? The answer is yes, Doritos is safe to consume while pregnant, but remember moderation is the key, and occasional snacking won’t harm the baby. The most important thing is to always listen to your body, stay hydrated, and eat a balanced, nutrient-based meal. In pregnancy your digestive system is already slow and weak by eating items that are high in sodium and spices can leads to heartburn, bloating, or discomfort. Eat snacks like Doritos occasionally or in portions; avoid making them a part of your daily eating habit. You can go for some homemade and healthy alternatives like veggie sticks or lightly seasoned popcorn to fulfill your cravings. At the end of the day Doritos is fun snack that crave by many pregnant women but taking it in moderation can safe you from discomfort in pregnancy.
Also Read: Can I Eat Tuna While Pregnant? Mercury Risks, Benefits & Tips
Medical Disclaimer
This article is just for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or healthcare plan.
