French fries, dips, fried chicken and other fried foods are delicious and comforting for many people. However, a recent study by researchers in Hangzhou, China found that the Frequent consumption of fried foods, especially French fries, may be associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression.
The results of the study were striking: people who consume fried foods regularly have a 12% higher risk of anxiety and a 7% higher risk of depression compared to those who do not. The link was strongest between young men and younger consumers. But after all, how can fried foods affect our mental health?
What is acrylamide and how does it affect our health?
The nutritionist and endocrinologist Dr. Ronan Araujo points out that one of the explanations for the relationship between fried foods and mental health problems is acrylamide, a chemical that is formed during the frying process. Acrylamide is a reaction product between aspartic acid and reducing sugars, which are naturally found in many foods such as potatoes, cereals and coffee.
Acrylamide is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and it can also have negative effects on mental health. Previous studies have suggested an association between acrylamide and the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, but the Chinese study is the first to explore a possible link with mental health.
The research team analyzed data from more than 140,000 people over the age of 11. There were 8,294 cases of anxiety and 12,735 cases of depression among those who consumed fried foods. French fries, in particular, had a 2% increase in the risk of depression compared to fried white meat.
Why can fried foods affect our mental health?
Acrylamide is a concern because it is a neurotoxic agent, which means it can affect the central nervous system. In addition, fried foods can also affect the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which is responsible for regulating mood and emotion.
Another possible explanation for the link between fried foods and poor mental health is the presence of trans fatty acids, which are also common in fried foods. “These trans fatty acids are known to increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and other health problems. Furthermore, there is evidence that trans fatty acids can affect mood and emotion.” comments Dr. Ronan Araujo.
Deep-fried foods are also high in calories and fat, which can lead to weight gain and obesity-related health problems like diabetes and heart disease. These health problems can, in turn, affect mental health.
How to reduce the consumption of fried foods?
If you’re a fan of fried foods, you might be wondering how to reduce your consumption of these foods. Here are some tips that can help:
1. Cook at home: cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients and cooking method. Instead of frying, try grilling, baking, or steaming.
2. Choose healthy foods: Choose nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. These foods are less likely to be fried.
3. Avoid fast food: Fast food is notoriously high in fried foods. Try to limit how often you eat at fast-food restaurants.
4. Try new recipes: If you are used to eating fried foods, it can be difficult to change your eating habits. Try new recipes that offer different flavors and textures.
5. Seek help: “If you are struggling to reduce your consumption of fried foods, seek help from a trained professional. They can help you create a healthy and balanced eating plan.” finishes Dr. Ronan Araujo.
French fries, dips, fried chicken and other fried foods are delicious and comforting for many people. However, a recent study by researchers in Hangzhou, China found that the Frequent consumption of fried foods, especially French fries, may be associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression.
The results of the study were striking: people who consume fried foods regularly have a 12% higher risk of anxiety and a 7% higher risk of depression compared to those who do not. The link was strongest between young men and younger consumers. But after all, how can fried foods affect our mental health?
What is acrylamide and how does it affect our health?
The nutritionist and endocrinologist Dr. Ronan Araujo points out that one of the explanations for the relationship between fried foods and mental health problems is acrylamide, a chemical that is formed during the frying process. Acrylamide is a reaction product between aspartic acid and reducing sugars, which are naturally found in many foods such as potatoes, cereals and coffee.
Acrylamide is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, and it can also have negative effects on mental health. Previous studies have suggested an association between acrylamide and the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, but the Chinese study is the first to explore a possible link with mental health.
The research team analyzed data from more than 140,000 people over the age of 11. There were 8,294 cases of anxiety and 12,735 cases of depression among those who consumed fried foods. French fries, in particular, had a 2% increase in the risk of depression compared to fried white meat.
Why can fried foods affect our mental health?
Acrylamide is a concern because it is a neurotoxic agent, which means it can affect the central nervous system. In addition, fried foods can also affect the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin, which is responsible for regulating mood and emotion.
Another possible explanation for the link between fried foods and poor mental health is the presence of trans fatty acids, which are also common in fried foods. “These trans fatty acids are known to increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and other health problems. Furthermore, there is evidence that trans fatty acids can affect mood and emotion.” comments Dr. Ronan Araujo.
Deep-fried foods are also high in calories and fat, which can lead to weight gain and obesity-related health problems like diabetes and heart disease. These health problems can, in turn, affect mental health.
How to reduce the consumption of fried foods?
If you’re a fan of fried foods, you might be wondering how to reduce your consumption of these foods. Here are some tips that can help:
1. Cook at home: cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients and cooking method. Instead of frying, try grilling, baking, or steaming.
2. Choose healthy foods: Choose nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. These foods are less likely to be fried.
3. Avoid fast food: Fast food is notoriously high in fried foods. Try to limit how often you eat at fast-food restaurants.
4. Try new recipes: If you are used to eating fried foods, it can be difficult to change your eating habits. Try new recipes that offer different flavors and textures.
5. Seek help: “If you are struggling to reduce your consumption of fried foods, seek help from a trained professional. They can help you create a healthy and balanced eating plan.” finishes Dr. Ronan Araujo.
