Eating more than 6 chips in one sitting ‘puts your health at risk’

It’s bad news for chip-lovers – eating any more than a measly portion of French fries, processed spuds or chips is bad for your health.

According to a study, people who eat fried potatoes two to three times a week face higher mortality rates when compared to those who consume their potatoes unfried.

The humble potato recently topped a poll of the UK’s favourite vegetable.

Co-author of the study, Dr Nicola Veronese, of Padua in Italy, said the team of researchers were surprised at the sheer amount of french fries, chips and other fried or processed potato products consumed by people in other countries.

Nutritional expert and Harvard professor Eric Rimm said potatoes are ‘starch bombs’ that fail to measure up to green leafy vegetables in the health stakes – especially when the peel – which possesses the majority of the root vegetable’s nutritional value – is removed then the remaining pieces are deep fried in oil and top with salt, cheese or unhealthy sauces.

Although the findings make for grim research, we don’t have to quit chips.

There are a number of measures you can take to incorporate a healthy amount of the dietary stable.

Portion control

Dr Rimm suggests splitting side dishes, opting for fries and a salad.

He said: “There aren’t a lot of people who are sending back three-quarters of an order of French fries,” Dr. Rimm added: “I think it would be nice if your meal came with a side salad and six French fries.”

Ditch dips and dressings

Sauces, dips or dressings such as sugary ketchup, calorific cheese or chilli can often double or triple the amount of calories in a portion of chips.

Simple swaps

Swap the usual white potatoes for their sweet potato cousins, which boast more vitamin A and fibre.

If you bake, instead of frying chips less oil is required.

Dr. Rimm also suggests consumers track how they feel after scoffing chips. He reckons that if people take heed of their bodies it might lead to changes in eating habits.