FEW FACTS ABOUT THE POTATOES

Yes they are high in starch, means they get digested quickly and can raise blood glucose levels, so why skip the potatoes and its nutrients for the same reason.

A good idea is to combine it with fiber so their digestion gets slowed down and there is no spike in blood glucose levels hence becomes diabetic friendly. So add all kind of vegetables to it in good amount . To make it an ideal balanced meal add a portion of protein like chicken, meat, fish or eggs.

Another myth is that potatoes are high in calories. No, not really. An average potato has around 150 calories, which is normal. In fact the calories are added the way it is cooked. As the most popular way is french fries and deep frying of potato chips.

Potatoes contain acrylamide. This is a toxic substance found in starchy foods only when they are cooked and processed in very high temperature. It is supposed to cause cancer in lab animals. But nothing has been proved in humans yet. Frying potatoes for long time can result in more acrylamide.

Potatoes are not a no no food for diabetics or obese people. What matters here is the amount consumed and its  cooking method.

So enjoy your share of potatoe in right amounts and correct cooking methods

THE MYTHS AND FACTS OF POTATOES

For years potatoes have been living a love hate relationship with health and diet.
This root vegetable has always in controversy for its so satisfying taste and its connection with obesity. Let us know about its factual detail.

Potatoes are high in starch. The myth that soaking or rinsing them removes their starch is not true.  A typical potato is 20 % starch and the remaining part is water with some minerals, protein, vitamins, some amino acids and organic acids which give potato its typical flavor.

Potatoes are high in potassium and vitamin C. The skin adds to the fiber. Not all potatoes are same, white potatoes are highest in starch. In fact they have a very smooth texture and are highly used for baking dishes. Yellow and red potatoes have little less starch comparatively.

Potatoes are carb rich, energy providing and have little fat. It is low in protein, high in vitamin C and rich in several B vitamins. Calorie in boiled potato is 80 to 90. Being high in potassium they help in lowering the blood pressure. They also benefit in muscle and nerve function.

Sweet potatoes have a lot of benefit. They are high in vitamin B6, C and E, keeps the heart healthy, high in fiber so regulates blood sugar, has antioxidant and is good for hair and skin, helps in weight loss and boosts immunity.