Potatoes might be more useful than you think

Potatoes often get dismissed as “just carbs,” but they’re actually nutrient-dense, versatile, and packed with surprising health perks. When cooked the right way, they can be one of the healthiest foods in your kitchen. Let's get to know its benefits based on a study by Mary Ellen Camire, professor of food science and human nutrition at the University of Maine.

Excellent for Digestive Health: The potato skin contains substantial dietary fiber, which supports bowel health, digestion, and overall gut function.

Heart Health: The high potassium content in potatoes supports cardiovascular health by helping regulate blood pressure, balancing sodium levels, supporting normal heart and muscle function.

Powerful Antioxidant Properties: Potatoes contain phenolic acids, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which exhibit antioxidant action. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and may play a role in chronic disease prevention.

Low fat but High Quality Carbohydrate: Potatoes are very low in fat, and their carbohydrate has a high biological value (90 to 100). This makes potatoes a nutrient rich, high value carbohydrate source.

Potatoes are high in Essential Nutrients: potatoes are naturally high in vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and dietary fibre, making them one of the most nutrient dense staple foods.

Potential Cancer Prevention: The antioxidants in potatoes especially their phenolic compounds may help reduce DNA damage, which the review says could have a protective effect against some cancers. Additionally, potato resistant starch (formed when cooked and cooled) may support colon health, which is linked to lower colorectal cancer risk.