Do fried foods raise blood sugar levels?

Mar 25, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I measured my blood glucose levels and found them to be elevated. This might be due to having eaten fried food once recently. I would like to ask, can fried food increase blood glucose levels?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Feng

There is a certain association between fried foods and elevated blood sugar levels. During the high-temperature cooking process, fried foods absorb large amounts of oil, which the body absorbs after consumption, leading to increased blood fat levels and subsequently raising blood glucose levels.

Although fried foods are relatively low in carbohydrates, the carbohydrates they contain can be converted into sugar after entering the body. Long-term consumption of fried foods may lead to sustained increases in blood sugar. Harmful substances produced during frying, such as acrylamide, may also interfere with blood sugar regulation mechanisms. For individuals who already have diabetes or poor blood sugar control, consuming fried foods may exacerbate blood sugar fluctuations and increase the risk of complications. Regular consumption of fried foods not only raises blood sugar levels but may also worsen vascular hardening and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, making it even more detrimental to diabetes management.

It is recommended to limit the intake of fried foods and choose healthier cooking methods, such as steaming, boiling, or baking, to help maintain stable blood sugar levels and promote overall health.