French fries have long been criticized as an unhealthy food choice, and new research suggests they may deserve that reputation more than other potato dishes.
A large study published in The BMJ found that eating three servings of French fries per week was associated with a 20% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In contrast, consuming the same amount of potatoes prepared in other ways, such as boiled, baked, or mashed, was not linked to a significant increase in diabetes risk.
The research also found that what replaces potatoes in a person's diet matters. Swapping potatoes for whole grains was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, while replacing them with white rice was linked to a higher risk.
Looking Beyond Potatoes Alone
Potatoes provide important nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and magnesium. However, they are also rich in starch and have a relatively high glycemic index, meaning they can cause blood sugar levels to rise quickly. Because of this, previous studies have often connected potato consumption to a greater risk of type 2 diabetes.
