Health professionals are raising alarm over the rising consumption of fried foods, warning that regular intake may significantly increase the risk of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. Drawing from both scientific research and clinical observations, experts have revealed that these popular comfort foods contain harmful substances that negatively impact brain function.

Nutritionists speaking with Frontpage Health underscored the powerful link between dietary habits and psychological well-being. They particularly highlighted the presence of acrylamide—a potentially neurotoxic chemical formed when starchy foods like potatoes are cooked at high temperatures. Acrylamide has been shown to contribute to neuroinflammation and alter lipid metabolism, both of which are linked to mood disorders.

Fried Foods and Inflammation: A Dangerous Cycle

Similoluwa Olorunleke, a certified nutritionist, explained that consuming fried foods regularly can lead to physical health issues like obesity, high cholesterol, and atherosclerosis—a condition where fatty deposits clog arteries, increasing the risk of ischemic stroke. She noted that these chronic illnesses don’t just harm physical health—they also affect mental well-being.

“There’s a direct and indirect connection between cardiovascular health and mental health. When the brain doesn’t receive adequate blood flow due to clogged arteries, cognitive functions can deteriorate. This, in turn, may contribute to depression and anxiety,” Olorunleke said.

She also explained that fried foods typically contain saturated fats that reduce satiety, making people eat more than they should. Overeating, especially of unhealthy foods, may then lead to emotional distress and poor self-image, feeding into a cycle of anxiety and depression.

Food and Mood: A Two-Way Relationship

Olorunleke further noted that a person’s mental state can influence their eating habits, while dietary choices can directly affect mental health.

“There is a significant link between food and mood. In diagnosing depression or other mental health issues, changes in appetite and eating patterns are among the earliest signs. People often eat more or less based on how they feel emotionally,” she stated.

According to her, adopting healthier cooking methods—such as steaming, boiling, baking, or grilling—can help preserve nutrients and protect mental and physical health. She also recommended increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseed, and salmon, as they support brain function and emotional stability.

Cancer and Cognitive Risk: A Double Threat

Deborah Onoja, a clinical dietitian and wellness entrepreneur, warned that fried foods pose a broader health threat beyond mental health, including an increased risk of cancers such as colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. She explained that unhealthy oils and large portion sizes common in fried food consumption make matters worse.

“These meals are often calorie-dense, high in sodium, and contain unhealthy fats. These are all contributing factors to diseases like obesity, hypertension, and heart disease—conditions that frequently coexist with, or even exacerbate, mental health disorders,” Onoja said.

She urged individuals to choose healthier oils like olive or avocado oil if they must fry food, while keeping portion sizes small. More importantly, she advised the inclusion of vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and healthy fats in daily meals to build a resilient mind and body.

Scientific Backing: What the Research Says

Supporting these expert warnings, a large-scale study conducted by researchers from Zhejiang University in China and published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences provided strong evidence linking fried food intake to mental disorders.

The study tracked over 140,000 participants over an 11-year period and found that individuals who frequently consumed fried foods—especially fried potatoes like French fries—had a 12% higher risk of anxiety and a 7% higher risk of depression compared to those who did not.

Researchers identified acrylamide as a key culprit, noting its capacity to induce inflammation in brain tissue and interfere with neurological pathways critical to emotional regulation.

A Call for Healthier Lifestyles

In light of these findings, experts recommend that Nigerians and individuals globally adopt a more balanced lifestyle. This includes:

• Reducing intake of fried foods

• Choosing cooking methods that preserve nutrients

• Eating a variety of micronutrient-rich meals

• Staying physically active

• Drinking enough water daily

• Prioritizing adequate sleep

• Seeking professional help for customized nutrition advice, especially for those with chronic health conditions or emotional instability.

In summary, while fried foods may be convenient and tempting, their long-term health consequences—both physical and mental—are significant. Experts urge individuals to make informed dietary choices, not just for their bodies but also for their minds.