It’s no secret that fried foods aren’t the healthiest choice, but what about fried potatoes specifically? Potatoes are a staple in many households and a beloved comfort food for many, but research shows that regular consumption of fried potatoes may increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body processes sugar (glucose). When you eat food, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose, which then gets released into your bloodstream.

Your pancreas produces a hormone called insulin, which helps glucose enter your cells so that it can be used as energy.

However, if you have type 2 diabetes, your body becomes resistant to insulin, meaning it can’t use it effectively. As a result, glucose builds up in your bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Over time, high blood sugar can lead to complications such as nerve damage, heart disease, and kidney damage.

What are Fried Potatoes?

When we talk about fried potatoes, we’re typically referring to French fries and potato chips. French fries are typically made by cutting potatoes into thin strips and then frying them in oil until they’re crispy.

Potato chips are made by slicing potatoes thin, frying them in oil until crispy, and then seasoning them with salt or other flavors.

How Do Fried Potatoes Affect Your Health?

Regular consumption of fried potatoes has been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

However, recent research has also shown that eating fried potatoes regularly may increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who ate fried potatoes two to three times a week had an increased risk of developing diabetes compared to those who ate them less than once a month.

Those who ate fried potatoes four or more times a week had a significantly higher risk of developing diabetes.

Additionally, the study found that replacing fried potatoes with boiled, baked, or mashed potatoes was associated with a lower risk of diabetes.

This suggests that it’s not necessarily the potatoes themselves that are the problem, but rather the method of preparation.

Why are Fried Potatoes So Unhealthy?

So why are fried potatoes so unhealthy? One of the main reasons is that they’re high in fat and calories. When you fry potatoes, they absorb oil, which significantly increases their calorie content.

This can contribute to weight gain and obesity, which are risk factors for type 2 diabetes.

In addition to being high in fat and calories, fried potatoes are also high in acrylamide. Acrylamide is a chemical that forms when foods are fried or baked at high temperatures.

It’s classified as a probable carcinogen and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer in animal studies. While the evidence is less clear in humans, it’s still a good idea to limit your intake of acrylamide-containing foods.

What Can You Do?

If you love potatoes but are concerned about the risks associated with fried potatoes, there are a few things you can do. One option is to simply eat potatoes in moderation.

Enjoy them boiled, baked, or roasted, and limit your intake of French fries and potato chips.

You can also try making your own baked or air-fried potato chips at home. By using an air fryer or baking the chips in the oven, you can significantly reduce the amount of oil used and make a healthier version of this favorite snack.

The Bottom Line

Fried potatoes, including French fries and potato chips, are a beloved comfort food for many. However, research shows that regular consumption may increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

If you’re concerned about your health, it’s best to limit your intake of fried potatoes and opt for boiled, baked, or mashed potatoes instead.