Most potatoes mainly contain carbohydrate with a little bit of protein and almost no fat. So are potatoes healthy? There are conflicting thoughts and studies as to how healthy potatoes really are.
Then, are russet potatoes healthier than white potatoes?
One source proposed Russet potatoes are also generally healthier than white potatoes. “Russet potatoes offer a higher fiber content than white potatoes, which helps improve gut health,” Friedman continues. “Russets are also a good source of iron, which supports healthy blood, and magnesium, which is needed for heart, nerve and immune system function.”.
You could be thinking “Are processed potatoes healthier than whole potatoes?”
One article claimed that Processed potato products are also less nutrient dense and contain more calories, fat and sodium than whole potatoes. Potatoes contain a good amount of carbs and fiber, as well as vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium and manganese. Their nutrient contents can vary depending on the type of potato and cooking method.
While writing we ran into the question “Are sweet potatoes healthier than regular potatoes?”.
Well, sweet potatoes in general are lower in calories, protein and carbohydrate but higher in fiber, when compared to regular potatoes. They also contain more sugar, giving them their sweet taste.
We in short, potatoes are a nutrient-rich, naturally gluten-free source of energizing, satiating whole food carbs with potential health and performance benefits. Enjoy them, and feel good about it.
Potato and Satiety. Although the potato is a high GI food, research suggests it provides a high satiety effect. In comparison to other high GI foods, the potato leaves a feeling of satiety that prevents unnecessary calorie consumption. This trait of the potato allows it to be part of various fat loss programs.
Are potatoes heart healthy?
The good news is that America’s favorite vegetable – potatoes – can be a part of a heart-healthy diet. For cardiovascular health, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends foods that are: Limited in fats – potatoes are naturally fat-free and cholesterol-free. Limited in sodium – potatoes are sodium-free, too!
One of the next things we asked ourselves was: are baked potatoes high in cholesterol?
Nearly one third of Americans have high cholesterol, putting them at higher risk for heart disease and stroke. Baked potatoes are a naturally low-fat, low-cholesterol food. They’re also packed with potassium, which some research suggests can greatly reduce risks of heart disease.
Do potatoes have any dietary fat?
Contrary to what most of the people believe, the potato does not have any dietary fat. The problem arises when you hog on massive servings of potatoes in one sitting. Just like eating large fries, 3 times a day and then blaming potatoes for it. The potato is one of the best unprocessed vegetables that you can get your hands on.
Our favorite answer was the potato is a healthy food choice if consumed wisely. It is one of the best post workout meals and therefore supports muscle gain/fat loss. At the end of the day, if your calories are in deficit, you will lose weight.
Since insulin promotes fat synthesis, in theory, yes, foods that are high GI (like potatoes) should make you gain weight and foods that are low GI should make you lose it . But again, studies haven’t been able to find a difference in weight management with higher vs lower GI diets.
Can eating potatoes lower your blood pressure?
“Potatoes contain nutrients that contribute to a dietary pattern that can lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health, including potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, niacin, and vitamin B6,” said Dr. Mc. Gill, adding that we may not be getting enough of some of those nutrients in our current diets.