Loading...
Anecdotal reports have suggested that the fat substitute olestra causes significant diarrhea and abdominal pain. This six-week U.S. study, conducted by investigators funded by olestra's manufacturer, evaluated the incidence and impact of olestra side effects in 3,181 subjects aged two years or older who snacked freely on corn or potato chips at home. Households were randomized to receive chip packages containing either olestra or full-fat chips. The packages were all labeled "...Contains Olestra. Olestra may cause abdominal cramping and loose stools...."
On days when subjects ate chips, they ate about 1 ounce. Overall, gastrointestinal symptoms (including heartburn, nausea, vomiting, gas, bloating, cramping, more frequent bowel movements, an…