The comfort food of many generations, French fries, is hardly regarded as a healthy food option. But did you realize that it could also be detrimental to one’s mental health? According to research conducted in China, eating fried foods frequently—especially fried potatoes—is associated with a high risk of sadness and an even higher risk of anxiety.
French fries and other fried foods are commonly consumed by people who are more likely to experience anxiety-related problems
French fries and other fried foods are commonly consumed by people who are 13% more likely to experience anxiety-related problems. In terms of depression, the researchers discovered a 7% increased risk compared to individuals who did not consume fried meals.
The research’s results were released in the American National Academy of Sciences’ publication PNAS (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences). Younger consumers of fried food products and young men were more likely to notice the connection. The findings “open an avenue in the significance of reducing fried food consumption for mental health,” the study claims. But the findings still come with an important qualification.
Over the course of more than 11.3 years, 140,728 participants were tested in the study
According to experts quoted in the media, it is still unclear if fried foods cause mental health concerns or whether those who already have mental health issues turn to fried food items because the research’s findings are preliminary. The issue can be seen as follows:
Do fried foods induce anxiety or depression in the first place, or are they the source of these conditions in the first place? This is due to the fact that individuals with underlying signs of anxiety and depression frequently eat comfort foods. Over the course of more than 11.3 years, 140,728 participants were tested in the study.
The study also discovered that participants who routinely consumed more than one serving of fried food were more likely to be young people, particularly young guys. According to a previous study, “Food and Mood: How Do Diet and Nutrition Affect Mental Wellbeing,” inadequate nutrition might exacerbate a mental health issue by depressing one’s mood. The most recent study adds to the mounting data linking bad food to mental health issues.
