Potatoes are perhaps one of the most widely consumed as well as an essential source of food on the planet. These health benefits can include their potential to enhance digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and boost the health of the heart. They might assist in enhancing immune function and retarding the aging process.
Let’s begin by reviewing the nutrition facts. Then, let’s dive into the health advantages of this internationally-famous vegetable!
Health Benefits Of Potatoes
The following health benefits are associated with potatoes:
Promotes Weight Gain
According to a study, potatoes may primarily contain carbohydrates. Potatoes can be combined with cream, butter, or cheese, making them ideal for people who wish to lose weight. Vitamin C or B-complex could be found in the vitamin content. These vitamins can aid in the proper digestion of carbohydrates. That could explain why sumo wrestlers can eat large quantities of potatoes.
It May Be Easy To Digest
Because potatoes can contain carbohydrates, they are easy to digest and may help with digestion. They may be suitable for babies, those with difficulty digesting food, and those who need energy. You must remember that too many may lead to Acidity.
May Have High Fiber
There may be a significant amount of fiber in potatoes. This can increase peristaltic activity and stimulate the production of gastric juices. It helps to ease digestion and prevents constipation. A high amount of fiber in the vegetable could help protect your body from serious conditions, such as colorectal cancer. Fiber has been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels in the arteries and blood vessels. This may lead to better heart health.
May Aid In Skincare
Vitamins C & B-complex may be good for the skin. Additionally, the pulp of crushed raw potato mixed with sugar could be used to make skin and face products. This pulp may be useful in treating skin spots and pimples. If this pulp is applied externally to burns it may provide immediate relief and speedier healing. The softening of rough skin around the elbows can be done with mashed potatoes and even water after they’ve been washed.
May Help Treat Scurvy
A study revealed that potatoes could have high levels of vitamin C and carotenoid. Scurvy is a condition that results from a lack of vitamins. After studying the deaths, researchers found that scurvy had been a very common condition in this region.
May Reduce Inflammation
According to a study, potatoes may be very effective in reducing inflammation. They can be easily digested and have lots of vitamin A and potassium. This may reduce inflammation in the intestinal lining and digestive system. They may be a good option for patients with mouth ulcers. To counter the inflammation, arthritis sufferers and gout patients may consider using potatoes. This simple vegetable can make you gain weight, which can make your gout worse. The key is to find the right balance.
May Prevent Heart Diseases
In addition to the B-complex and C vitamins, minerals, and roughage, potatoes may also contain specific compounds called carotenoids (Lutein and Zeaxanthin). Carotenoids are regarded to be beneficial for the health of internal organs, including the heart. You should be careful about how often you consume potatoes to achieve this health benefit because they may increase blood glucose levels and excessive consumption may lead to obesity. Potatoes shouldn’t be consumed by people with diabetes or obesity.
Tips To Reduce Potato Nutrient Loss
Avoid peeling potatoes right before cooking. The outer shell may offer protection against nutritional losses. These minerals and protein content may be high so it is important to peel the skin before you cook them.
Before boiling potatoes, heat the water until it reaches boiling point. Then add the potatoes to the water. This will reduce the cooking process and keep the vitamin content intact. Limit the frying of potatoes. Frying can result in 75% less vitamin C. You can use other methods, such the baking, with an air fryer, and steam cooking.
