On August 7, 2025, a study published in the BMJ found that eating French fries three times a week can increase the chance of getting type 2 diabetes by 20%. The study looked at the diets of 205,107 adults over 30 years. It showed that other ways of eating potatoes—like baked, boiled, or mashed—don’t raise diabetes risk. Researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health said choosing healthier options can make a big difference.
French fries causing diabetes? That’s a big reason to skip them!
Whole Grains Are Better
The study found that swapping potatoes for whole grains, like farro or brown rice, can lower diabetes risk. Replacing baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes with whole grains cuts the risk by 4%. Even better, switching French fries for whole grains drops the risk by 19%. Even choosing refined grains over French fries helps a bit. Over the 30-year study, 22,299 people got diabetes, and the researchers used food surveys to track what everyone ate, focusing on potatoes and grains.
Whole grains beating fries? Time to grab some rice instead!
Why It Happens
French fries are often fried in unhealthy oils and loaded with salt, which can mess with blood sugar and lead to diabetes over time. Baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes are healthier because they’re not fried. Whole grains are packed with fiber, which helps control blood sugar better. Walter Willett, a Harvard professor, said, “Small diet changes, like cutting back on French fries and eating whole grains, can lower diabetes risk for everyone.” He added that these simple swaps are a powerful way to stay healthy.
Fries are tasty but risky? That’s a wake-up call!
What You Can Do
The study’s message is clear: if you love potatoes, eat them baked, boiled, or mashed, not as French fries. Try whole grains like oats, quinoa, or farro instead of fries to keep your diabetes risk low. This isn’t just for potato lovers—it’s for anyone wanting to eat healthier. Willett said, “Limiting French fries and choosing whole grains could help stop diabetes across the population.” With type 2 diabetes affecting millions, small changes like these matter a lot.
Swap fries for healthier food? Sounds like a smart move!
Why It’s a Big Deal
This study shows how everyday food choices, like picking fries or grains, can change your health, much like India’s food safety plan or the PMMVY helping moms. It’s a reminder to think about what’s on your plate, like the buzz around Madharaasi or India’s cricket win. An X post from @HealthNews_IN said, “BMJ study: Ditch French fries to cut diabetes risk by 20%!” With diabetes on the rise, this advice could help millions stay healthy. Do you love fries? What do you think about this study? Tell me!