They're rich in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant. Potatoes were a life-saving food source in early times because the vitamin C prevented scurvy. Another major nutrient in potatoes is potassium, an electrolyte which aids in the workings of our heart, muscles, and nervous system.
Potatoes are a natural source of fiber, protein and starchy carbohydrates and these are certified as heart-healthy food by American Heart Association. It is one of the most common and vital food sources in the world.
But as Nathan wrote, and as our registered dietitians teach at the Pritikin Longevity Center today, potatoes are actually very good for you, especially if you're trying to lose weight. That's because, ounce for ounce, potatoes are one of the most filling and low-calorie foods we can eat.
A. Yes, it is safe to consume potatoes every day as long as you cook them without much salt or saturated fats. One medium-size potato can be part of a healthy diet. It doesn't increase cardiometabolic risk and the chances of having diabetes and heart disease.
And unlike white bread, the starch in potatoes hasn't been refined to deplete nutrients. Potatoes also deliver niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin C and magnesium. They're a great source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
Potatoes are a healthy choice when boiled, baked, mashed or roasted with only a small amount of fat or oil and no added salt. French fries and other chips cooked in oil or served with salt are not a healthy choice.
Mashed potatoes are often made with whole milk or cream, melted butter and plenty of salt. Those creamy bites of goodness can easily derail any waist-friendly or heart-healthy diet.
Of rice, pasta, potatoes, and bread, potatoes are the healthiest of these starchy and complex carbohydrate foods. This is because potatoes are dense in nutrients, containing essential minerals, vitamins, and other micronutrients.
The main reason potatoes can become unhealthy though is the way they're prepared – especially when we're talking mashed potatoes. It's easy for the calories and fat to add up with all the butter, milk and cream generally in mashed potatoes.
Nutrients found in potatoes:
Fibre – much more than rice, particularly if eaten with its skin. B vitamins and vitamin C. Magnesium, iron and potassium (high amounts, more than banana) Low calorie – 200 calories in four small boiled potatoes
Both rice and potatoes are great thanks to their fat content being less than 1g, which makes them perfect candidates for weight-loss foods. Vitamin-wise, rice is a great source of vitamin B spectrum, while potatoes have gotten their good reputation in vitamin C content as one of the highest amongst vegetables.
Mashed Carrots
Mashed carrots are another great, low carb alternative. They are full of flavor, low in calories and packed full of beta-carotene, an important nutrient for optimal eyesight. We love this healthy recipe.
The Case for the Peel
The skin of a potato contains many vitamins and minerals, plus fiber and iron. High in vitamins C and B6, which help aid the immune system, skin-on mashed potatoes over Thanksgiving could help fight off the holiday sniffles. The peels also add a toothsome texture and an earthy flavor to the dish.
Baked, mashed, or boiled, potatoes actually provide more energy-delivering complex carbohydrates than a cup of pasta. All varieties--russet, red, yellow, purple, and sweet--contain impressive quantities of vitamins and minerals.
One of the main reasons bodybuilders eat rice and chicken is because it's cheap, clean, and incredibly good for building muscle. This is because it gives a good mix of carbs to replenish the muscles right after a workout, with a ton of protein to start the muscle-building process as well.
The Healthiest Potato is the Red Potato
After taking into account the mineral density, the vitamin density, the macronutrient balance, the sugar-to-fiber ratio, the sodium-to-potassium ratio, and the phytochemical profile, red potatoes are the healthiest potato with data from the USDA Food Database.
KFC mashed potato is made with real potatoes and is mixed with margarine, milk and spices so it does have some nutritional value. However, if you are watching your calorie and fat intake, KFC mashed potato may not be the healthiest option. Each serving contains about 200-250 calories and 10-13 grams of fat.
While the vegetable part of mashed potatoes supports health, the dairy ingredients complicate the dish, especially if you eat too large a serving. Butter and milk or cream not only add calories to mashed potatoes, but contribute saturated fat to a vegetable that is naturally fat free.
Potatoes are also a good source of potassium, which is essential for maintaining a healthy heart. Together, extra virgin olive oil and potatoes can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.
Mashed potatoes themselves are not unhealthy, however mashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, and milk can increase calories and may increase your risk of high cholesterol. These all add fats to the potatoes, and trans or saturated fats are known to contribute to high cholesterol levels.
The Best Mashed Potatoes
To make them fluffy and flavorful, be sure to simmer them slowly and add plenty of salt to the cooking water. And don't skip the step of steaming the excess water off; leaving too much moisture in the potatoes causes them to be loose and gluey.