French Fries Increase Type 2 Diabetes Risk in US, UK Studies

Multiple large-scale studies have found that the risk of developing type 2 diabetes is significantly influenced by the preparation method of potatoes and the form in which sugar is consumed. Eating three servings of French fries or chips per week is associated with a 20% higher risk of type 2 diabetes, whereas consuming similar amounts of boiled, baked, or mashed potatoes does not carry the same risk; increasing French fry intake to five servings per week raises the risk to nearly 30%. Experts emphasize that frying potatoes introduces unhealthy fats and increases calorie content, both of which contribute to insulin resistance and diabetes risk. Furthermore, replacing French fries with whole grains can lower diabetes risk, while substituting with white rice may increase it. On the other hand, another comprehensive study found that sugar-sweetened beverages pose a much higher diabetes risk compared to sugars consumed in whole foods, as the latter are digested more slowly due to the presence of fiber and other nutrients. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of food preparation and the source of sugars in managing diabetes risk.