Hot Cheetos can cause diarrhea because of their high capsaicin content. Besides this, the high sodium of Cheetos, especially if eaten excessively, causes diarrhea. Also, individual health conditions or sensitivities can lead to runs.
Want to know in detail why Hot Cheetos induce diarrhea?
Read these science-backed 5 reasons that explain the way Hot Cheetos may cause diarrhea in some people.
1. Capsaicin
Hot Cheetos get their heat from capsaicin, the fiery compound coming from chili.
However, it can trigger burning diarrhea in many ways.
First, capsaicin interacts with TRPV1 receptors in your digestive tract.
These receptors are located in your mouth, on the surface of your tongue, and throughout your digestive tract.
The interaction sends the signals of heat (pain) to your brain from the affected area.
Subsequently, your brain triggers an inflammatory response in your digestive system.
As a part of this response, your brain also releases chemicals like the substance P.
Substance P (SP) is a special type of molecule called a neuropeptide responsible for stimulating saliva production, smooth muscle cell contraction, and inflammatory responses in tissues.
This overall reaction stimulates your gut lining to release more fluids in the intestines in such a situation of urgency.
This causes watery stools.
At the same time, substance P increases muscle contractions within your intestines.
These excessive contractions further contribute to diarrhea by moving the gut content faster.
However, Some research suggests that the diarrhea caused by capsaicin might be dose-dependent or because of individual sensitivities.
A 2022 study published in the journal Foods is one example supporting this possibility.
Eating moderate amounts of capsaicin won’t generally cause diarrhea.
2. Individual Sensitivities
Capsaicin-containing food, like Hot Cheetos, can trigger diarrhea, especially if you have sensitivities.
Here is how:
Gut Sensitivity
Some people have a naturally more sensitive digestive tract.
So, they experience increased irritation or inflammation more readily, even from moderate amounts of capsaicin.
Such inflammation can make your gut release extra fluids to combat the situation. And the result can be diarrhea.
Digestive Conditions
Gut problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can make you more sensitive to capsaicin.
Such sensitivity can also cause diarrhea.
Studies like a 2009 study published in Neurogastroenterol Motil, PubMed have found people with IBS or IBD more susceptible to diarrhea caused by capsaicin.
It’s because they have more heat sensation or pain-causing receptors like TRPV1, according to another 2008 study published in the journal Gut.
However, the individual level of sensitivity varies depending on the severity of the conditions; even healthy people can have varying sensitivities.
TRPV1 Receptor Sensitivity
The number of TRPV1 receptors plays a role in pain perception and reaction to stimuli like capsaicin.
If you’ve got more TRPV1 receptors, you may experience a stronger reaction to capsaicin.
This can include burning, discomfort, and other digestive issues like diarrhea due to increased gut inflammation and resulting secretions.
However, the exact mechanisms are not fully understood.
Likewise, the severity of individual responses can vary.
Besides this, other factors, such as your overall gut health and tolerance to spicy food, can also come into play.
Microbiome Variations
The trillions of bacteria are living in your gut.
They’re known as the gut microbiome.
They play a crucial role in digestion and overall health.
Studies suggest that the composition of your gut microbiome might influence your tolerance to capsaicin.
It’s because certain bacterial populations might better handle capsaicin’s effects than others.
Simply put, everyone reacts differently to spicy food (like Hot Cheetos).
Your diarrhea after eating Hot Cheetos might be because you have more sensitive guts than others.
Likewise, certain health conditions can make you more sensitive to spicy food.
Even the types of bacteria in your gut can play a role.
3. High Sodium
Foods like Hot Cheetos are high in sodium.
A 28-gram serving of Hot Cheetos has 250 mg of sodium. It’s about 10% of your daily value of sodium determined by USDA.
Excessive sodium intake can cause other health issues, yet it may not trigger diarrhea in healthy adults.
However, if you have sodium sensitivity, even in small amounts, it can cause diarrhea.
Here’s how:
Osmotic Effect
Sodium acts as an electrolyte–it attracts water into the intestines.
If you eat sodium rich foods excessively, the amount of sodium increases in the body.
High sodium intake draws water from the bloodstream into the gut.
This may increase the volume and fluidity of stool, resulting in diarrhea.
Irritant Effect
Although less potent than capsaicin, high sodium intake can irritate the intestinal lining in some people, according to studies.
This irritation can increase intestinal fluid secretion and faster movement of stool, leading to diarrhea.
Sensitivity to Sodium
Some people have a higher sensitivity to sodium.
This means their bodies react more strongly to smaller amounts.
So, if you’ve sodium sensitivity, you might experience diarrhea more readily after consuming high-sodium foods like Hot Cheetos.
Underlying Conditions
Existing digestive conditions can make you more susceptible to diarrhea triggered by dietary factors, including high sodium intake. These conditions can be Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Microscopic Colitis, and Malabsorption Syndromes.
4. Artificial Dyes
Hot Cheetos have artificial food colorings like Red 40 and Yellow 6.
These additives are considered safe for consumption by regulatory bodies under safer limits.
However, suppose you have sensitivities or intolerances to these dyes or over consume them. You might experience health issues like diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps in that case.
5. Overconsumption
No matter what’s in Hot Cheetos, overdoing it can result in unwanted outcomes, like any other food.
This is because your body can’t bear the distress caused by overconsumption.
So, it comes as no surprise, if you’ve eaten several servings of Hot Cheetos and now your tummy is crying.
How Can You Treat Hot Cheetos Diarrhea?
Hot Cheetos related diarrhea can resolve easily in a few hours or days if you take a break from unhealthy foods and stay hydrated.
However, a few tips can help to relieve the symptoms:
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, electrolyte drinks, or clear broth. But avoid sugary drinks, as they can worsen diarrhea.
- Stick to easily digestible foods and probiotics, such as rice, bananas, applesauce, yogurts, and toast.
- Avoid spicy, fatty, or greasy foods–they irritate the digestive tract and worsen diarrhea.
- Take rest to help the body heal.
- Opt for over-the-counter medications, such as loperamide (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol), if your diarrhea does not improve after a few days.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if:
- Your diarrhea doesn’t improve in a couple of days.
- You have severe diarrhea accompanied by fever, chills, or blood in the stool.
- Signs of dehydration are getting worse, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fatigue
- You have a history of some sensitivities inflammatory bowel disease, or other digestive problems
Prevention
The best way to prevent diarrhea from eating Hot Cheetos is to avoid eating them or to eat them in moderation.
How Can You Enjoy Hot Cheetos without Getting Diarrhea?
Due to individual sensitivities and varying spice tolerance, there’s no guaranteed way to avoid potential stomach upset from Hot Cheetos entirely.
However, some tips might help you enjoy Hot Cheetos moderately.
1. Gradual introduction
Start with a small amount of Hot Cheetos and gradually increase your intake over time.
This way, your body can better adjust to the capsaicin content and other diarrhea-causing ingredients.
2. Eat with food
Don’t consume Hot Cheetos on an empty stomach.
Instead, pair Hot Cheetos with a meal, particularly something with protein or healthy fats like yogurt, avocado, or nuts.
Right pairing can help slow down digestion and reduce irritation.
3. Prioritize Hydration
Stay well-hydrated before, during, and after eating Hot Cheetos.
This can help dilute the capsaicin and ease potential discomfort.
4. Mind your Portion Size
Overindulging, even if your tolerance is high, can overwhelm your digestive system.
By following these tips, you can gradually introduce your digestive system to Hot Cheetos without potential troubles.
However, if you experience any discomfort, stop eating immediately.
Alternatively, look for milder versions of Hot Cheetos or explore different spicy snacks with lower capsaicin content.
If the conditions persist, consult a doctor or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
Remember, these are general tips, and your individual experiences may vary.
So, strive to find what works best for you and prioritize your health and well-being.
Bottom Line
Hot Cheetos’ delicious flavor may come at the cost of diarrhea for you.
Yet, by understanding the reasons behind the potential for diarrhea can help you make informed choices.
The culprit can be the capsaicin, individual sensitivities, or even the high sodium content. So, be mindful about your portion size, right pairing and hydration.
Remember, a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance if you experience persistent digestive issues.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and doesn’t replace professional medical advice. Seek a healthcare professional for a personalized diagnosis and treatment.
