When we’re trying to incorporate more vegetables into our diets, potatoes — as much as we love them — usually aren’t what we had in mind. Potatoes have sealed their reputation as the veggie that is good but not good for you, but maybe it’s time to reevaluate that line of thinking. While it may not be as nutrient-dense as some of our favourite leafy greens, their specs aren’t something to completely write off either.
With high-quality potatoes, like the ones our friends at Alexia Foods use to make their delicious and organic fries, hashbrowns and puffs, you might actually be getting more than you had initially bargained for. To help you out, we’ve outlined some of the nutritional benefits of this household staple that you might not have been aware of.
Potatoes get a bad reputation for being an unhealthy vegetable, but here are some of their many benefits
Excellent source of Fibre, Potassium and Vitamin C
Potatoes are a great source of fibre, potassium and vitamin C. Among other things, potassium helps your muscles work optimally, and Vitamin C is vital for the growth and development of body tissue and preventing iron deficiency. Fibre is important for digestive health, keeping you feel fuller for longer, and maintaining regular bowel movements.
Naturally gluten-free
Potatoes make the cut for those who have a gluten intolerance or simply prefer to live a gluten-free lifestyle. This is good news for pasta and bread lovers out there, as you can use potatoes as a substitute for the ingredients you are looking to avoid. For example, you can make pastries with potato flour, use it as a soup thickener, make potato lasagna, and much, much more!
Contains antioxidants
Potatoes are packed with antioxidants that work to prevent diseases by fighting off free radicals from causing cell damage and helping your body function as desired. The more colour in the potato, the more antioxidants it has, so to get the most out of your potatoes, leave the skins on and go for the darker varieties.
Extremely filling
Potatoes are incredibly filling in a way that most vegetables just are not. Because of this, they are a great answer to hunger pains. In addition, some studies suggest that one delicious potato dish can sustain you for a long time because they contain a protein called proteinase inhibitor that is a natural appetite suppresser.
One of the most versatile foods out there
While not a nutritional benefit per se, potatoes’ versatility makes it one of the most accessible vegetables out there. There are so many different ways to prepare this root veggie, whether it be boiling, roasting, baking, or frying them. Naturally, specific preparations are bound to be better for you than others, but adding potatoes to your regimen is so effortless.
Even though potatoes don’t share the nutrient profiles of spinach, carrots, or broccoli, they’re not void of nutritional value either. As a filling source of fibre and antioxidants that is also naturally gluten-free, this veggie was made to accommodate many different lifestyles. So, if you’re feeling like fries tonight, have at it! You can find Alexia’s mouthwatering and satisfying waffle and sweet potato fries at The Sweet Potato in the Junction neighbourhood of Toronto and have yourself a spud-tacular time!