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Study links Fried potato Consumption to Increased Type 2 Diabetes Risk, Highlights Importance of Dietary Swaps
Madrid, Spain – November 2, 2023 – A new study published in the journal BMC Public Health reveals a notable association between frequent fried potato consumption and an elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Researchers at the University of Navarra in Pamplona, Spain, analyzed data from over 147,000 participants across eight European countries – Denmark, England, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, and sweden – over an average follow-up period of 16 years.
The research, conducted between 1992 and 2018, found that individuals consuming fried potatoes more than twice a week exhibited a 52% increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to those who ate them less than once a month. This risk remained consistent even after accounting for other lifestyle factors like physical activity, smoking, and overall calorie intake.
However, the study emphasizes that the way foods are demonized is crucial. Simply labeling foods as “bad” without considering preparation methods, accompanying foods, or potential healthier substitutions can be misleading. the research specifically highlights the benefit of replacing fried potatoes with whole grains.
The same importance is what we eat as we stop eating
“the study provides valuable and already known evidence that supports current recommendations to prioritize whole grains and limit fried foods, even seemingly healthy options like potatoes,” explains Dr. cristóbal Morales, a specialist in Endocrinology and Nutrition at Vithas Sevilla hospital and a collaborator with the Spanish Society of Endocrinology and Nutrition (SENC). He notes that substituting cooked potatoes with whole grains can demonstrably reduce diabetes risk.
Researchers observed that replacing just one serving of fried potatoes per week with a serving of whole grains was associated with a 12% reduction in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. this suggests that even small dietary adjustments can have a substantial impact on long-term health outcomes.
The study’s findings reinforce the importance of a holistic approach to dietary recommendations. Focusing solely on eliminating specific foods can be counterproductive; instead, emphasizing the inclusion of nutrient-rich alternatives and promoting balanced eating patterns is key.
The researchers conclude that small changes in daily diet can significantly impact the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, advocating for the incorporation and maintenance of healthy lifestyles and nutritional habits as a cornerstone of preventative healthcare. The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study, which provided the data for this analysis, continues to be a vital resource for understanding the relationship between diet and chronic disease.
Images | Freepik/morblmoreno
