
Potatoes are considered most consumed vegetable crop in the United States, and after wheat, rice, and corn it is the fourth most consumed crop in the world. An average American eats 55 pounds or 35 kilograms of potatoes every year. It is an incredibly versatile vegetable, and it is an integral part of many dishes worldwide. They have numerous benefits which have made them an essential dietary item in the world. Potatoes were first grown in South America up to 10,000 years ago. Then the Spanish explorers introduced them to Europe in the early 16th century.
While people ponder vegetable to be healthy, potatoes have managed to stay into controversy because of their starch content and unhealthy processed and fried foods. If you are shopping online, make use of Kogan discount code to get things at discounts.
Benefits of potatoes
Blood pressure
High blood pressure can occur for many reasons, including stress, diabetes, obese, etc. The fiber found in potatoes may help lower cholesterol by binding the cholesterol in the blood. It is rich in potassium, which helps lower blood pressure. Potassium acts as a vasodilator, which is widening of blood vessels.
Bone health
The calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc present in potatoes help the body to build bone structure and strength. Zinc and iron help in producing collagen. It is essential to balance the phosphorous and calcium in our body for proper bone mineralization.
Brain functioning
The vitamins B6 in potatoes are essential to maintaining neurological health. Vitamin B6 helps to create useful brain chemicals, like norepinephrine, serotonin and dopamine. They are high in carbohydrates, which promotes the level of glucose in the blood. Eating potatoes may reduce stress and depression. Potatoes contain iron as well, which carries oxygen to the brain and keeps it healthy.
Inflammation
Potatoes can reduce inflammation both internally and externally. It is easy to digest, and contains potassium, vitamin B6 and a good amount of vitamin C. They also can alleviate all inflammation in our digestive system and intestines. Besides, they are an excellent dietary item for people having mouth ulcers. So, people who have arthritis can keep potatoes in their diet for their anti-inflammatory effect.
Digestion
Due to their higher fibre and carbohydrates, content potatoes are beneficial for digestion. Because of its soft property, potatoes are a good diet for babies and who cannot digest hard food.
Skincare
Vitamin C and B-complex with other nutrients like zinc, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium can all help your skin to stay healthy and smooth. You can also cure pimples and age spots by applying a mix of honey and potato pulp on your face.
Risk
Blood sugar
Potatoes cover a high amount of starch and carbohydrates when consumed they cause blood sugar level surge and the dip. This effect can make people hungry soon, which may lead to overeating. This increase in blood sugar can lead to an increase in insulin production in your body.
Carbs
As you know, potatoes holda high level of carbohydrates, which may not be beneficial for people with obesity when eaten in excess. Like any other food, potatoes should be eaten moderately. Avoid eating fried potatoes and try eating potatoes alongside non-starchy vegetables for a balanced intake.
Potassium
Beta-blockers are a type of medication taken for heart disease. It contains potassium level increase in the blood. So, high potassium food like potatoes should be avoided while taking beta-blockers.
High potassium level can also cause a problem for people with kidney damage.
Conclusion
Potatoes are high in vitamins, fibre, minerals and antioxidants, which promotes numerous health benefits. Although fried potatoes like French fries, potato chips, Twizzlers, patties, etc. are loaded with calories, which may cause negative effects when consumed in large amounts.
Eventually, how you cook them, and how much quantity you are having, matters the most. If potatoes are eaten in moderation and prepared in a healthy way, potatoes can be a nutritious addition to your diet.