When it comes to hydration, most people think of water, fruits, and vegetables. But what about French fries? They’re a popular snack and side dish, often made from potatoes, which naturally contain water. So, are French fries hydrating?

Potatoes: A Hydrating Food?

Potatoes, the main ingredient in French fries, are surprisingly rich in water. A raw potato is about 80% water, which means it has the potential to contribute to your hydration. In fact, when you eat a baked or boiled potato, you’re getting a decent amount of water along with carbohydrates, fiber, and some vitamins and minerals, such as potassium.

What Happens During Frying?

The hydrating potential of potatoes, however, significantly changes when they are turned into French fries. The frying process involves cooking the potatoes at high temperatures in oil, which dramatically reduces their water content. The moisture inside the potato evaporates, making French fries crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Unfortunately, the water content that could have contributed to hydration is lost in this process.

In addition to the loss of water, French fries absorb oil during frying, which adds to their calorie content and reduces their ability to hydrate. So, while French fries start as a hydrating food, the frying process diminishes this benefit.

Salt and Dehydration

Another factor to consider is the salt commonly added to French fries. Salt is high in sodium, an essential electrolyte that plays a role in hydration, but too much sodium can actually have the opposite effect. Consuming salty foods can increase your thirst and, in large amounts, may even lead to dehydration. When you eat a lot of salty fries, your body needs extra water to balance out the sodium, potentially making you feel more dehydrated in the long run.

Do French Fries Hydrate at All?

While French fries do contain some water, the frying process and high sodium content make them a poor choice for hydration. If you’re trying to stay hydrated, there are far better options, such as fruits like watermelon and cucumbers, which have high water content and provide hydration without the added fat and salt.

Conclusion

In short, French fries are not a hydrating food. The frying process reduces their water content, and the added salt can contribute to dehydration rather than hydration. If you’re looking to boost your hydration levels, it’s best to reach for water-rich foods or simply drink more water rather than relying on French fries. Enjoy fries as an occasional treat, but don’t count on them to keep you hydrated.