When it comes to tasty foods to nibble on while reading a book or watching television, French fries and potato chips seem to be universal favorites. No wonder the potato is such a popular vegetable. But did you know of any of the benefits of potatoes?
There are over 9,000 varieties of potatoes in the world. They are easy to grow and sustain, and as they’re affordable, they’re the most commonly consumed vegetables in the world. Unfortunately, due to the popularity of potato-based junk food such as French fries, they are often seen as the source of maladies like heart attacks and obesity. As a result, the benefits of potatoes that arise from their nutritional value are often overlooked.
Four Important Benefits Of Potatoes
The health benefits of eating potatoes are many. Here are some of them:
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Protection From Cardiovascular Diseases
Potatoes are a good source of phtyochemicals, flavonoids, and vitamin B6, all of which reduce the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and protect the arteries from getting clogged with fat.
A study conducted at the Agricultural Services in Navarre found that potato skins contain 60 different phytochemicals and vitamins.
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Better Digestion
The carbohydrates in potatoes are easy to digest. As a result, these veggies make an ideal food source for patients and young children who require higher amounts of energy than usual. Eating potatoes regularly also provides protection against colon cancer.
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Decreased Blood Pressure
The nutritional content of potatoes has positive effects on blood pressure. Consuming just a few servings of potato per day, cooked in healthy ways of course, can reduce your blood pressure levels to quite an extent.
According to a research study conducted at the Institute for Food Research in Norwich, potatoes have molecules called kuokamines, which decrease blood pressure.
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Improved Skin Health
Potatoes are a rich source of vitamin C, B Complex vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. These nutrients are essential for healthy skin. Raw potatoes are often crushed and mixed with honey and used as a poultice to treat the wrinkles and blemishes caused by aging.
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Healthy Weight Gain
Potatoes are very high in complex carbohydrates, especially starch. A single potato has 10 percent or 29.1 grams of carbohydrates. This means that if you’re one of those few individuals who’re looking to gain weight, potatoes can be an ideal food source to help you do so in a healthy manner.
Now that you know about the benefits of potatoes, you’ll want to think twice before you pass up on these veggies. But remember, you can get all the nutritional content of potatoes only when you cook them in a healthy way.