Potatoes aren’t usually thought of as nutritious. However, this all-purpose vegetable has some surprising health and nutrition benefits. Although french fries and potato skins may be heavy in fat and calories, the potato itself is fat and cholesterol free as well as low in sodium. Prepared the right way, potatoes can make a delicious, satisfying, and healthy dish.
Potatoes are the most commonly consumed vegetable in the United States. In 2017, it was calculated that each person consumed 49.2 pounds of potatoes. This beloved vegetable is easy to grow and is used in countless dishes across the country year-round.
According to the book 'Healing Foods' the "Alkalising and anti-inflammatory, potatoes soothe stomach and duodenum ulcers and reduce stomach acidity. They may also relieve the inflammation associated with arthritis." Add potatoes to your diet, but, remember that eating anything in excess is harmful.
Yes, potatoes can help ensure healthy BP. Potatoes can help regulate blood pressure. Macrobiotic Nutritionist and Health Practitioner Shilpa Arora says, "Potatoes have about 100 calories, It is great for people with high blood pressure and water retention coz it balances high sodium levels." Potatoes are also rich in chlorogenic acid and anthocyanins, chemicals that help lower blood pressure.
According to the book 'Healing Foods', Potatoes, especially their white flesh, are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid with natural sedative properties that helps calm the nerves. L-tryptophan is an amino acid. L-tryptophan is called an essential amino acid as our body can't make it naturally. It must be acquired from food like potatoes.
Did you know potatoes contain zero cholesterol? That's right, potatoes have no cholesterol. Potatoes, in fact, could do wonders for your heart with its heart healing antioxidant anthocyanins. They also contain fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and B6 - all of which are great for heart health.
The alpha-lipoic acid, a co enzyme present in the potatoes can help boost overall cognitive health. Experts have linked this acid to have beneficial effects on Alzheimer's patients as well. A number of vitamins and minerals present in potatoes positively affect the function of the brain (including zinc, phosphorus, and B complex). Vitamin B6 is particularly critical to maintaining neurological health.
The high fiber content of potatoes aids smoother digestion. Fiber supports digestion and promotes bowel regularity by adding bulk to stool. Potatoes can also help quick recovery from diarrhea. Potatoes are rich in potassium, a mineral that is excessively lost during diarrhea.
Tryptophan, which is naturally found in potatoes, is a natural sedative that ensures good sleep. Also, the potassium in potatoes acts as a muscle relaxant, which further ensures more restful sleep and relaxation. Plus, it is a well-known fact that foods high in carbohydrates often inhibit regular sleeping patterns, especially in children.
According to some studies, potato juice could help alleviate Premenstrual syndrome symptoms. The high carb content of potatoes helps elevate the levels of tryptophan, which further boosts the serotonin production in the body (Serotonin is also called the happiness hormone). This spike in serotonin helps improving mood and reduces anxiety.
"Rich in calcium and phosphorous, potatoes help strengthen bones," says Shilpa. The iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc present in potatoes all contribute to the building and maintenance of bone structure and strength. Zinc and iron play critical roles in the production and maturation of collagen. Potato has all these components.
Did you know potato boasts of an excellent collagen-boosting ability? A simple potato facial mask can help treat acne and other skin conditions like dark spots and blemishes.
Delhi's leading skin and hair expert, Dr. Deepali Bhardwaj says, "As a dermatologist, I recommend my patients to use potato juice under the eyes. It has skin tightening properties and can reduce premature ageing and wrinkles. Since the skin under our eyes is thin, it tends to wrinkle fast, potato juice comes to the rescue." Here's you can use potato and potato juice to treat your many skin woes.