Potatoes and Heart Health: Unexpected Scientific Findings

A group of American researchers conducted an unprecedented meta-analysis to study the relationship between potato consumption and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

The large-scale study included more than 110,000 participants. Scientists analyzed data from seven long-term observational studies to obtain the most reliable results.

The study brought unexpected results: consumption of potatoes in boiled, baked, or mashed form has no effect on the risk of heart disease. This pattern persisted even after accounting for important factors such as age, dietary habits, and participants' lifestyle.

However, researchers found a concerning link between fried potato consumption and increased blood pressure. Just one serving of fried potatoes per week can increase the risk of hypertension by 10%.

Interestingly, these findings contrast with recent conclusions by Norwegian scientists who found positive effects of boiled potatoes on reducing overall mortality.

Specialists recommend special caution for people with diabetes, as starch can cause sharp fluctuations in blood sugar levels. The optimal choice is considered to be boiled or stewed potatoes no more than twice a week.