Environment and Health
Zim GBC News Network<\/p>\n\n\n\n
London, UK \u2013 A groundbreaking study published in the British Medical Journal has revealed that consuming fried potatoes three times a week can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 20%, with higher consumption further elevating the danger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key Findings<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd39 3 servings of chips weekly \u2192 20% higher diabetes risk
\ud83d\udd39 5 servings weekly \u2192 27% higher risk
\ud83d\udd39 Boiled, baked, or mashed potatoes \u2192 Only 5% increased risk
\ud83d\udd39 Replacing potatoes with whole grains \u2192 8-19% lower risk<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why Are Fried Potatoes Riskier?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The study, led by Harvard University public health expert Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, analyzed dietary data from 205,000 U.S. health professionals over 37 years (1984-2021). Researchers found that while potatoes themselves are not harmful, frying them into chips significantly increases health risks due to:
\u2714 High starch content (rapidly raises blood sugar)
\u2714 Loss of nutrients during frying
\u2714 Added fat, salt, and calories<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Potatoes can be part of a healthy diet, but it\u2019s how we prepare them that makes the difference,” said Dr. Kawther Hashem, a nutrition expert at Queen Mary University of London.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Boiled, baked, or mashed potatoes are naturally low in fat and rich in fibre, vitamin C, and potassium. But deep-fried chips, especially in large portions, contribute to weight gain and diabetes risk.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Healthier Alternatives<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The study recommends:
\u2705 Swapping chips for whole grains (brown rice, bulgur wheat, wholemeal pasta) \u2192 19% lower diabetes risk
\u2705 Opting for sweet potatoes with skin (more nutrients, lower glycemic impact)
\u274c Avoiding white rice as a substitute (linked to higher diabetes risk)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Limitations & Next Steps<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Researchers caution that the findings are observational and do not prove direct causation. However, the evidence aligns with existing dietary guidelines promoting minimally processed foods.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Zim GBC News | Global News From An African Perspective\u00a92025<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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