Fries with That? New Study Links Potato Chips to Increased Diabetes Risk!

2025-08-07 00:00:29.993

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal found a concerning link between eating french fries and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Consuming french fries three times a week raises the risk by 20%, and five times a week increases it by 27%. The research, conducted by an international team led by Harvard University's Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, analyzed data from 205,000 health professionals over several decades. While potatoes themselves aren't inherently unhealthy, the frying process transforms them into a high-fat, high-calorie, and less nutritious food. In contrast, baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes showed a much smaller increase in diabetes risk (only 5% with regular consumption). The study also suggests that replacing potatoes with whole grains could lower the risk of diabetes by 8%, or by 19% if chips are specifically replaced. According to Dr. Kawther Hashem of Queen Mary University of London, potatoes can be part of a healthy diet, but preparation is key. She recommends opting for boiled, baked, or mashed potatoes and avoiding white rice as a replacement. The study is observational and doesn't prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, but it highlights the importance of mindful food choices.