Potatoes are very soft and easy to digest, soothing the intestines and digestive system. They can also heal external inflammation when rubbed on the affected area.
Nutritional Benefits of Potatoes
Rich in Vitamins
Potatoes contain carotene and vitamin C, which are not found in grains. In particular, the vitamin C content in potatoes is ten times higher than that of apples.
Potatoes are also the most complete source of vitamins among all food crops. Their vitamin content is twice that of carrots, three times that of cabbage, four times that of tomatoes, and four times more vitamin B than apples.
The vitamin C content in potatoes is ten times that of apples. (Illustrative image)
2. High in Protein
Fresh potatoes contain 1.5% to 2.0% protein, about 6% to 8% based on dry weight. Potatoes provide essential amino acids comparable to eggs, surpassing various legumes, making them suitable for human nutritional needs and counting as high-quality protein.
3. Rich in Potassium
Potatoes are also very rich in potassium. The potassium content in 100 grams of potatoes reaches 200-400 milligrams, even more than bananas. By using potatoes as a substitute for some types of rice and steamed buns, you can consume hundreds or even thousands of milligrams of potassium, enhancing the effectiveness of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
4. High in Fiber
Potatoes are considered a low-fat food high in fiber, making them commonly recommended in diets for those planning to lose weight. They fill the stomach, preventing hunger for extended periods.
Eating Potatoes Helps Prevent Various Diseases
Potatoes are also highly effective in preventing and controlling the “three highs” (high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol). This is due to a type of resistant starch found in potatoes.
1. Prevents Constipation and Diarrhea
Resistant starch cannot be digested in the small intestine, but it helps maintain a balanced gut flora, reducing constipation, diarrhea, and other issues, thus preventing bowel cancer.
2. Fights Disease
As a source of fiber, potatoes are extremely beneficial for the digestive system. They help reduce cancer risk. Studies have also shown that potatoes are good for combating cardiovascular diseases. They also contain vitamin B6, which helps prevent neurological disorders.
3. Good for Diabetics
Many people think that potatoes are not good for diabetics because they may raise blood sugar levels. In fact, potatoes do not affect the glycemic index of diabetic patients.
4. Potatoes for Skin Care
Potatoes contain vitamin C, which is excellent for the skin, especially the face. Rubbing a little potato juice on the face can enhance skin beauty. Additionally, placing potato slices over the eyes for about 30 minutes can reduce puffiness and dark circles.
Potatoes offer numerous practical health benefits. (Image: realfood)
5. Good for the Brain
Potatoes are high in iron and copper, which are beneficial for the brain.
6. Reduces Inflammation
If you frequently suffer from external or internal inflammation, potatoes can be very helpful. They are soft and easy to digest, soothing the intestines and digestive system. They can also heal external inflammation when rubbed on the affected area. Notably, potatoes are excellent for those with mouth ulcers.
7. Treats Bruises
Potato juice is very effective for treating bruises, burns, sprains, inflammation, and helps heal wounds quickly. It also combats skin issues. Potatoes are effective in fighting cervical cancer and tumor formation.
8. Helps Reduce Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are primarily caused by elevated uric acid levels in the blood. Doctors often recommend that patients with kidney stones eat more potatoes due to their high iron and calcium content.
9. Relieves Stress
Potatoes are rich in vitamin B6, which is essential for cell regeneration. They are very useful in reducing mental and physical stress. They stimulate adrenaline hormone production, helping us react to stress and promoting relaxation and happiness.
10. Aids Weight Loss
Resistant starch is similar to soluble fiber and has certain fat-reducing effects. In recent years, it has become popular among beauty enthusiasts.
11. Lowers Blood Pressure
Potatoes are a potassium-rich and low-sodium food, making them excellent for lowering blood pressure. They are particularly suitable for individuals with hypertension and those who are obese.
Tips for Using Potatoes to Address Health Issues
Helps Reduce Swelling
When your face is swollen and hot, you can peel a potato, slice it thinly, and apply it to your face. You will feel cool and comfortable, which can effectively reduce swelling and heat.
Placing raw potato slices on a sprained area can help reduce swelling and pain.
Helps Treat Acne
When you start to break out, quickly place a slice of raw potato on the spot and replace it after half an hour. After a few applications, the acne will significantly reduce.
Reduces Pain from Sprains
Applying raw potato slices to a sprained area can help reduce swelling and pain. For pain after minor hot water burns, in addition to rinsing with plenty of cold water, applying a piece of potato to the burn can also be very helpful in alleviating pain.
Reduces Knee Pain
Mashing raw potatoes with ginger and then applying it to swollen joints can help relieve pain.
Combats Cold
Potatoes, like taro, nourish the air and promote blood circulation. Eating potatoes regularly in winter is very effective for combating the cold.
The Most Effective Ways to Use Potatoes
The resistant starch content in raw potatoes is 50% to 70%, and it will drop below 10% after cooking. However, after cooling, a regeneration process occurs, and resistant starch will multiply. Therefore, potatoes can be cooked and then cooled before consumption.
However, it is essential to note that potatoes are very prone to sprouting. Sprouted potatoes produce toxins that can cause dizziness and stomach pain after consumption. Therefore, never eat sprouted potatoes.
To keep potatoes for a longer time and prevent sprouting, you can place apples in the potato bag. The ethylene gas emitted from apples can slow down the sprouting process of potatoes.
