THE TRUTH ABOUT POTATOES

 

Potatoes have an undeserved, bad rap! They are delicious, nutritious, and seriously misunderstood. Potatoes are associated with carbohydrates, that most of us think will put on the pounds. The truth is, potatoes are a root vegetable, low in carbohydrates and considered a good starch, that shouldn't be omitted from a healthy diet.
It is the world's fourth-largest staple crop, following rice, wheat, and maize. Potatoes provide fiber, protection against colon cancer, improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity, has been noted to lower cholesterol and triglycerides, and possibly even reduces fat storage, with blood-pressure lowering potential.
Potatoes are made up of 79% water. They are actually lower in carbohydrates than some green veggies. They are a good source of Potassium and fiber, and even have a fair amount of Vitamin C and B6. They provide us with Copper, and Manganese.  And.. as you can see, I am a big fan!

Potatoes originated in Peru and Bolivia, and have become a multi-cultural staple. They are storable, long term, and in the same family, whose other relatives include eggplants, tomatoes, peppers, and tomatillos.
"Unfortunately, most people eat potatoes in the form of greasy French fries or potato chips, and even baked potatoes are typically loaded down with fats such as butter, sour cream, melted cheese and bacon bits. Such treatment can make even baked potatoes a potential contributor to a heart attack. But take away the extra fat and deep frying, and a baked potato is an exceptionally healthful low calorie, high fiber food that offers significant protection against cardiovascular disease and cancer."
courtesy of http://www.whfoods.com
Potatoes are often packaged conveniently in 5 lb. plastic bags. However, it is usually better to buy them individually. Potatoes should be firm, and relatively smooth. Also, they should not be sprouting or have green discoloration. Buying them individually, allows you to inspect the potatoes for signs of mold. Plastic bags are not always perforated and can cause a build up of moisture that can affect the potatoes, giving them an unpleasant taste, It is important to note though, that... eating a potato that is bad, (i.e. moldy, sprouting, decayed, green, or soft) can cause health problems, such as circulatory problems, respiratory problems, diarrhea, headaches and even depression.
The more we know about the foods we eat, the better prepared we are to choose foods that are healthy and beneficial. And... the way we prepare these foods, are the main contributors of weight gain, or weight loss.
"Potatoes should not be stored in the refrigerator, as their starch content will turn to sugar giving them an undesirable taste. In addition, do not store potatoes near onions, as the gases that they each emit will cause the degradation of one another. Wherever you store them, they should be kept in a burlap or paper bag. Mature potatoes stored properly can keep up to two months. Check on the potatoes frequently, removing any that have sprouted or shriveled as spoiled ones can quickly affect the quality of the others. New potatoes are much more perishable and will only keep for one week. Cooked potatoes will keep fresh in the refrigerator for several days. Potatoes do not freeze well. " courtesy of http://www.whfoods.com