Here's why a professor recommended six measly French fries as an ideal portion size

French fries might not be considered a healthy food, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a healthy debate about them. The beloved and versatile dish sparked a heated discussion around the Internet today, nearly one week after the New York Times published an article quoting a Harvard University Professor who recommended an appallingly small serving size for French fries. “There aren’t a lot of people who are sending back three-quarters of an order of French fries,” Dr. Eric Rimm said in the piece.“I think it would be nice if your meal came with a side salad and six French fries.” Six French fries. He also called the plate “starch bombs.” While six French fries might seem like a paltry portion size for fry-lovers, the recommendation isn’t too far-fetched, as there are many studies that link fried food to deadly diseases. “Additional studies in larger sample sizes should be performed to confirm if overall potato consumption is associated with higher mortality risk.” Giving up French fries is a lot to ask, but Dr. Rimm's health advice is certainly sound, in that there is ample evidence that it is healthiest to limit one’s consumption of fried foods.