Eating fried food, particularly fried potatoes such as French fries, may increase the risk of depression and anxiety, according to a study. Researchers investigated the effects of fried foods on depression and anxiety and discovered that regular consumption of fried foods is linked to higher levels of these mental disorders in humans.
Although further studies are needed to understand the underlying mechanisms of these effects, anxiety and depression are the most prevalent mental disorders worldwide. Fried foods are a significant part of the Western diet and are increasing globally. Previous studies have found that consuming fried or processed foods, sugary products, and beer is linked to a higher risk of depression and anxiety. Research also shows that the frying process may change the nutrient composition of foods and produce harmful chemicals.
Frying carbohydrates such as potatoes generates acrylamide, which has been linked to obesity, metabolic syndrome, and neurological disorders. Few studies have investigated how acrylamide may affect anxiety and depression, but further investigation could inform public health policy and dietary interventions for mental health conditions.
Researchers recently investigated the link between fried food consumption and depression and anxiety. They found that fried food consumption, especially fried potatoes, is linked to an increased risk of anxiety and depression. They also discovered that acrylamide plays an essential role in the development of anxiety and depression in adult zebrafish. The study was published in the journal PNAS.
– Annie Lennon
To learn more about the effects of fried food on depression and anxiety, you can refer to the original study published in the journal PNAS: PNAS Study: Effects of Fried Food on Depression and Anxiety