As the millennium approaches, Americans have started to become more health-conscious, and some people have turned to science to control their diets with the development of Olestra.

Olestra is a huge sugar molecule that has six fatty acids attached to it, said Pamela White, professor of food science and human nutrition. She said the molecule is so large that it cannot be digested, and it just stays in the intestinal track.

While this molecule is in the intestinal track it lubricates the intestines, which can cause anal dripping or diarrhea, she said.

“Olestra is probably the most safety-tested product in history,” White said. “It is really dependent on the individual; some people could tolerate tons of it and experience nothing, while others might have problems with just a few.”

Mike Lee, manger of Cub Foods Store, 3121 Grand Ave., said the store has had a successful running with Olestra products and has not received any complaints regarding them.

“Right now, we have Frito Lay chips and Pringles [that contain Olestra],” Lee said.

Some Iowa State students said they have tried Olestra products.

“I have had no problems whatsoever,” said Brett Brinkmeyer, an undeclared freshman. “I ate half a bag of WOW chips before I realized what they were, and I have been fine since then.”

Not all students report positive experiences with the product, however.

“My experience with WOW chips was not a good one,” said Mike Gregwire, freshman in electrical engineering. “I won’t go into details, but it did not provide a pleasant weekend.”

Olestra or Olean brand potato chips can be purchased at most Ames grocery or convenience stores.

The main surprise behind the new chips might be the price tag. The price for a bag of Lays WOW chips is more expensive than its regular Lays counterpart.