Potatoes are not nearly as detrimental to health as many people believe. A significant study has demonstrated that the risks of developing type 2 diabetes are most frequently elevated by the consumption of french fries. In contrast, when prepared boiled, baked, or mashed, this root vegetable showed no such correlation. The findings of this research have been published in The BMJ journal.
Potatoes are a source of numerous beneficial nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, and several others. However, they also have a high starch content and glycemic index, leading to concerns about their potential as a contributor to diabetes. The researchers behind this latest study aimed to determine if the level of risk is indeed dependent on the method of preparation.
The specialists conducted an analysis of data from over 205,000 American healthcare professionals who participated in three extensive studies, with observation periods spanning nearly 40 years, from 1984 to 2021. During this time, type 2 diabetes was diagnosed in 22,299 participants. The experts controlled for various other potential influencing factors and concluded that consuming approximately three servings of potatoes per week was associated with a roughly 5% increase in the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Furthermore, the strongest association was observed with french fries, where three weekly servings led to a 20% rise in diabetes risk. However, comparable amounts of boiled potatoes, baked potatoes, or mashed potatoes did not correlate with a statistically significant increase in the risk of the condition.
What are the best potato substitutes? The study indicated that whole grain products are an optimal choice. These were linked to an 8% reduction in diabetes risk, and this figure rose to 19% when french fries were replaced. Conversely, when the experts suggested white rice as a substitute for participants, the risks actually increased.
- This information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or recommendations for treating any medical condition.
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