The consumption of frozen pre-fried potatoes continues to grow at a rate of 10% per year in the last five years in Brazil. Much of this movement is due to market evolution and investment in production capacity. For the coming years, the trend of increasing consumption of French fries in Brazil and around the world indicates a projected evolution.
The pre-fried frozen product fits into the pattern of changing lifestyles with the growing appreciation of practicality in food preparation and concern about nutritional quality. In the national territory, the average consumption of potatoes per person should increase from 3.5 kg/year, recorded in 2022, to 5.2 kg/year in 2026.
However, consuming food frequently can negatively impact your health. mental healthaccording to a study by University of San Francisco, in the United States. According to research, carried out in 2018, eating french fries frequently and excessively can trigger symptoms of anxiety and depression. To reach this conclusion, scientists analyzed the eating habits of more than one hundred thousand people over eight years.
The final indices showed that individuals who consumed French fries twice or more a week had a 17% higher risk of developing symptoms of depression compared to those who consumed French fries less than once a month. Additionally, those who frequently consumed french fries also had an 8% higher risk of developing anxiety.
Potato Chips x Mental Health
Scientists explained that foods rich in trans fat and simple carbohydrates can cause harm to the body, affecting the balance of important neurotransmitters. This is the case of serotonin, for example, directly related to mood and well-being. On the other hand, including healthy foods in the diet improves the production of neurotransmitters responsible for the feeling of well-being, such as serotonin and endorphins, improving mood, explains the company. Dr. Lorena Balestrapostgraduate doctor in nutrition and endocrinology.
Should I not eat more fries?
It is necessary to highlight that this research should not be seen as a definitive conclusion that the consumption of French fries is directly related to the development of symptoms of anxiety and depression, points out the expert. “More research and systematic reviews, including meta-analyses, are still needed to establish a clear relationship between this food and mental health. Other factors, such as genetics and environment, also play a role in the development of these problems.”says Lorena.
However, it is undeniable that maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is essential for the general well-being of the body and mind. “Including a variety of nutritious foods and avoiding highly processed foods high in trans fats can help reduce the risk of developing various illnesses, including mental illnesses. Furthermore, other healthy habits, such as regular physical activity and maintaining quality sleep, also contribute to mental and physical health.”recommends the doctor.
