When you go on a weight loss program, the first thing that you might cross off your diet list would be white potatoes. Potatoes are rich in carbohydrates that turn to sugar and then turn into fat. It can also increase the risk of type-2 diabetes. Well, this all puts potatoes in a bad light, but recent research has shown that how you cook and eat potatoes can contribute to your weight gain.
Potatoes Are Not the Culprits
White potatoes when cooked properly can help shed off those extra pounds. Potatoes are high in potassium and can help prevent water retention, resulting in weight loss. They are packed with essential nutrients and vitamins such as Vitamin C, folate, and iron that can help boost your immunity system. They are also high in fiber and can help fight obesity and heart diseases.
Potatoes USA the authority on potato nutrition, headquartered in Denver, Colorado is the nation’s potato marketing organization that promotes the demand for potatoes. They have conducted numerous researches and analyses to change the perception of consumers and make potatoes a nutritious vegetable. If you love potatoes and want to cook healthy and delicious dishes, you can refer to the recipes mentioned on their website.
As said earlier, potatoes are not the bad guys; it is how you cook them that contribute to weight loss. If you love junk food such as French fries and chips, that itself contributes to approximately 1200 calories! On the other hand, a large baked potato topped with calorie-light dressing can contribute to only 300 calories.
White potatoes are also high in amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. Amino acids such as lysine, methionine, threonine, and tryptophan can promote weight loss by promoting muscle growth and burning fat.
Other health benefits of potatoes include:
- They are packed with antioxidants that can fight free radicals and lower the risk of heart diseases and cancer
- They are also rich in magnesium which can reduce high blood pressure
- Potatoes contain a special starch called resistant starch that can help control blood sugar levels
- Potatoes are extremely filling and can easily curb your hunger pangs
Incorporating Potatoes to Shed Weight
Who does not love potatoes? You can have them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner without getting bored of them. If you have been shying away from your favorite vegetable due to weight gaining myths, then you will be glad to know there are other healthy alternatives to cooking and eating potatoes:
- Stay away from the deep-fried version of potatoes
- Baked or boiled potatoes with skin are highly nutritional
- Go in for light accompaniments such as chili flakes, Greek yogurt, and olive oil
- Mashed potatoes can be made using low-fat milk or vegetable broth
- If you crave fries or hash browns, you can make them at home without oil
There are various ways in which you can add potatoes to your diet plan. Eating small portions can keep you satisfied.
Conclusion
Potatoes are great, provided you stick to your diet regime. So go ahead and purchase potatoes and eat away to glory.
