What do studies say: numbers that might surprise you
In 2023, a group of researchers from Zhejiang University in China published an extensive study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Over 11 years, they followed more than 140,000 people and recorded 8294 cases of anxiety and 12,735 cases of depression. The results showed that people who regularly consumed fried food had a 12% higher risk of developing anxiety and a 7% higher risk of developing depression.
The most sensitive group were younger adults and men, often smokers as well. Additionally, these individuals mostly had a higher body mass index (BMI), lower incomes, and lower levels of education. This means that french fries are not just food but are often associated with an entire lifestyle that can further impact health.
What is acrylamide and why is it important?
When potatoes or other foods are fried at very high temperatures, a substance called acrylamide is formed. This is a chemical byproduct that is not found naturally in raw potatoes but is created during baking or frying at temperatures above 120 degrees Celsius.
Acrylamide is a substance that forms when sugars and amino acids (protein building blocks) combine during the heating of food.
Studies have shown that acrylamide can cause inflammation in the brain and nervous system, which could explain the link to mental issues such as anxiety and depression. The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) warned as early as 2015 that acrylamide is potentially carcinogenic and causes long-term harm to nerve cells.
Although it is difficult to prove a direct link between french fries and depression, scientists are convinced that brain inflammation is one of the key factors.
Anxiety and depression: issues of the 21st century
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are currently more than 280 million people globally suffering from depression and over 300 million people with anxiety. This means that every 10th person on Earth is dealing with these issues.
When we consider the fact that fast food consumption and home delivery services have increased from 2020 to 2025, the question of how diet affects our mood seems even more crucial.
Why fried food is not just a physical problem but also a mental one
Fried food has long been known as a risk factor for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart diseases. However, new findings suggest that its impact extends further to our brains. When we consume french fries, our bodies receive high calories, fats, and salt, but almost no vitamins and minerals.
In addition, frying triggers chemical changes that create acrylamide and other substances that can damage cells in the long term. All these factors together increase the likelihood of feeling tired, low in energy, and having a decreased mood.
A study from the University of Toronto in 2023 confirmed that people who regularly eat fried food not only report more negative moods but also have poorer quality of sleep. Quality sleep is one of the key foundations of good mental health.
Why a total ban is not the solution
It is important not to deceive ourselves - french fries alone are not the culprits. As nutritionist Nicole Lipman states, depression and anxiety are multifactorial diseases. This means they are caused by a combination of various factors: genetics, stress, lifestyle, and yes, diet too.
So, having an occasional portion of fries does not automatically mean you will develop depression. The problem arises when fried food becomes a daily part of your diet.
Cheap and homemade solutions: how to enjoy smarter
The good news is there are simple and inexpensive ways to enjoy potatoes and similar dishes without compromising your health.
Instead of frying, you can:
- bake them in the oven at a lower temperature (180 {-15696}C),
- use an air fryer, which consumes up to 80% less oil,
- soak the potatoes in water before cooking to reduce acrylamide formation.
A 2020 study showed that potatoes baked in the oven contain 60% less acrylamide than potatoes fried in deep oil.
Additionally, you can add more anti-inflammatory foods to your diet such as leafy greens (arugula, spinach), nuts, whole grains, and fish. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, people following such a Mediterranean-style diet report a 33% lower risk of depression.
A Real-world Example
Looking at the past few years, there is a clear connection between diet and mood. During the COVID-19 pandemic, people worldwide turned to fast food deliveries more often. In the US, fast food sales increased by 20% in 2020, while a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders reported a 42% increase in the prevalence of depressive symptoms.
By 2025, the use of food delivery apps in Europe increased by over 60%, with french fries being the most frequently ordered dish. This is a clear indication that eating habits and mental well-being are not separate worlds but are closely intertwined.
Moderate French Fries, Prioritize Mental Health
French fries can be a tasty and joyful snack, but they are also a reminder to consider what we put on our plate daily. Regular consumption of fried food is associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression, mainly due to substances like acrylamide and its general impact on the body and brain.
The solution lies not in complete avoidance but in moderation and smart alternatives. By preparing potatoes in a healthier way and complementing them with foods that strengthen the body and mind, you can still enjoy your favorite dish without fear of long-term harm to your health.
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