About Potatoes – The Underestimated Vegetable!

Undoubtedly, the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning Potatoes is French Fries! Although, they are undeniably tasty – there is so much more potatoes have to offer!

For instance, did you know potatoes have comforting effects? Indeed, it is known as Solanumtuberosum in Latin, which literally translates to ‘soothing’.

The skin (peel) of the potato is normally brown in color, while its interior is a hue of pale yellow and white. Both the skin and the flesh of this delicious veggie are edible. Indeed, most recipes used in Italian cuisine make use of the skin of the potato!
 

Potatoes don’t lack much in the variety department either –, there are over 5000 varieties of potatoes worldwide. Of these different varieties, about a 100 are edible.  These edible varieties can be divided in three categories; mature potatoes, new potatoes and the fingerling varieties. Some famous varieties of mature potatoes include the Russet Burbank, the White Rose and the Katahdin.

Potatoes Nutritional Information

Potatoes are a habitat to a number of minerals and nutrients.  It is a misconception that they only contain carbohydrates and calories! It is fair to say that, potatoes are a rich source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, potassium, manganese, copper, vitamin b6 and dietary fiber.  If consumed in the right form, potatoes can make for a very healthy, high fiber and a low calorie diet which can also help in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The dietary fiber is what ultimately runs your digestive system in an efficient manner and protects you from those horrid stomach hitches we all dread!
 

Other than that potatoes also house certain phytonutrients such as flavonoids, caffec acid, and certain tuber storage proteins such as patatin which act as antioxidants. The flavonoids also help in lowering blood pressure.

Health Benefits Of Potatoes

Potatoes are jam packed with nutrients. They are a nutrient filled vegetable that give you a run for all the calories that they may stand for.

Amazing For Your Heart!

The presence of Vitamin-B6 in Potatoes makes it excellent for your heart! Consuming foods high in this vitamin help reduce the incidence of heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Powerhouse of Vitamins!

It is not widely known that potatoes are a rich source of vitamin c. However, because the vegetable is not consumed raw, most of the vitamin c content is lost due to the heat of cooking. But on the upside, on baked potato offers around 205 of the recommended daily amount of vitamin b6 required for a healthy and efficient functioning system! 

Reduces Cholesterol & Blood Pressure!

Potatoes are extremely rich in fiber content - half of which is soluble. This essentially helps in lowering cholesterol levels, in addition to slowing down digestion in a way that actually helps you live longer!
Potatoes are also rich in ‘phytonutrients’ which help reduce levels of blood pressure. In fact, the potato is by far the only vegetable that consists of the blood pressure lowering agent ‘Kukoamine’!

Prevents/Treats Anorexia!

 Potatoes are loaded with carbohydrates. Patients of anorexia are suggested to consume a diet rich in potatoes. In fact, parents who are concerned about their child’s lack of weight should regularly incorporate potatoes to ensure they are getting enough carbs!  Moreover, the presence of Vitamin C and Vitamin B help carbohydrate absorption.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties!

 Potato is a very effective anti-inflammatory! It has the ability to ease inflammation that occurs in the intestines and the digestive system. Moreover, raw smashed potato can be applied to relieve external inflammation, burns etc.

For Radiant, Flawless Skin!

The high concentration of nutrients in potatoes makes them the perfect nourishment for healthy, glowing skin! In fact, potato juice is known to make the skin fair, clear and healthier! Many beauticians recommend using potato slices on your eyes as a remedy to dark circles!

Cures Diarrhea!

Potatoes contain some roughage which helps aid diarrhea. However, be careful not to overdo it, overconsumption of potatoes may worsen your diarrhea!

Possible Health Concerns

Potatoes may contain exceedingly high levels of pesticides which can be detrimental to health! Moreover, frying potatoes may cause cancer due to the formation of Acrylamide! To learn more about this harmful substance, read The Reality of Cancer Causing Acrylamide