Chips Consumption Boosts Type 2 Diabetes Risk by Up to 27%

According to a study published in the British Medical Journal on 2025-07-15, regularly eating chips can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The research, led by a public health expert at Harvard University, found that consuming chips 3 times a week boosts someone's chances of getting type 2 diabetes by 20%, while indulging 5 times weekly raises the risk by 27%.

The study also revealed that baking, boiling or mashing potatoes raises the risk of type 2 diabetes by 5%. However, replacing potatoes with whole grains like brown rice, bulgur wheat, or wholemeal pasta can lower the risk of developing the disease.

Experts emphasize that while potatoes can be part of a healthy diet, it's how they are prepared that makes the difference. Boiled, baked or mashed potatoes are naturally low in fat and a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. But when potatoes are deep-fried into chips or french fries, especially in large portions and with added salt, they become less healthy due to their high-fat, salt, and calorie content, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.