Potatoes – They Are Better For Your Health Than You Think

By John Sommersby | July 29, 2020

Today, almost everyone knows the dangers of having excess carbs in the diet and the associated risks. But relatively little information abounds concerning the right carbs to have in your kitchen plans. For lovers of potatoes and other root tubers, the question “are potatoes healthy”? is one that must be answered.

Nutritional value of potatoes

According to the United States Department of (USDA), potatoes are a good source of dietary fiber, copper, potassium, iron, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and Manganese. Potatoes are also low in saturated fat, sodium, and cholesterol and can safely be prepared differently. Potatoes are also low in caloric content. Per 100g, you can get 77 calories, and 0.1 g of fat.

So, are potatoes healthy? These five health and nutritional benefits will further convince you. 

Health benefits of potatoes

1. Potatoes are packed with nutrients: 

As seen above, potatoes have some really fantastic nutrient content that provides an excellent array of vitamins and minerals. Protein and dietary fiber complete these. It is essential to know that the way potatoes are prepared can affect the number of calories presented. Frying in oil or fat can significantly increase the calorie count.

2. Potatoes could improve blood sugar stability: 

Potatoes contain a particular class of carbohydrates known as resistant starch. Resistant starch is a type of starch that, when ingested, is not broken down in the body. It is rather absorbed in the large intestine, serving as fuel to the beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. These bacteria have long been linked to blood sugar control via the reduction of insulin resistance.

3. Potatoes contain antioxidants: 

Antioxidants are exciting chemicals because they are beneficial to the body. Antioxidants help cancel out some chemicals in the body called free radicals that have been implicated in many health conditions; some of these antioxidants are flavonoids, phenolic acids, and carotenoids. Their presence in potatoes makes it a choice carbohydrates source for those concerned with reducing carbohydrates in their diets.

4. Potatoes are gluten-free: 

Gluten-free diets are trendy because people prefer not to consume gluten (a class of proteins found in some grains). Some people experience some adverse symptoms and discomfort when they consume gluten. Potatoes are naturally free of gluten and can be safely consumed by those who are affected by gluten.

5. Potatoes “fill” the body: 

One of the struggles people face when trying to lose weight is reducing the amount of food and calories they consume. Potatoes can step in here to help control the caloric count. They tend to regulate hunger, so you do not always have to battle the urge to eat.

Are potatoes healthy? Yes, they are incredibly healthy for you and could be the safest option for you if you are looking to cut out carbohydrates from your diet.

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