Delicious and versatile, potatoes are one of the most loved vegetables. They can be made into pakodas, sandwiches, fries, tikkis and whatever mouth-watering dish you can think of. However, for years, people have been avoiding eating potatoes when trying to lose weight. This is because potatoes are infamous for being high in bad carbs. Not just that, potatoes are also blamed for several health issues like high blood sugar and high blood pressure. Your doctor might advise you to stay away from them if you have health issues, but not when you are trying to lose weight. You might be wondering how? By cooking and eating them the right way. Let’s delve deeper into the matter and learn how you can consume potatoes the right way, lose weight and prevent yourself from getting overweight on your self-improvement journey.
Also read: Are boiled sweet potatoes good for health? Nutritionists explain
Photo Credit: Pixabay
Can potatoes help you lose weight?
Absolutely! You might be surprised to know that potatoes can help you lose your excess weight. This is because of their health benefits.
1. Fiber
Potatoes are rich in fiber which can help your digestion. Also, the fiber content can keep you satiated for a longer period of time, curbing your desire to eat again and again. One potato (100 grams) contains only 80 calories.
2. Nutrients
Potatoes are rich in many important nutrients like vitamin C, potassium and vitamin B6 that can contribute to your overall health. Vitamin C is essential for the growth, development and repair of body tissues. Potassium helps regulate muscle contractions and fluid balance. While vitamin B6 is essential for brain health and supports many functions within the body.
3. Healthy Carbs
Potatoes contain complex carbohydrates, which means they provide energy slowly and steadily. This means that if you eat potatoes correctly, it will keep you full and energetic for a long time.
4. Low Calories
It may surprise you to know that potatoes are low in calories. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 100 grams of potatoes contain 77 calories, 2 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber. They are low in fat and provide satiety for a long time.
How to consume potatoes to lose weight?
According to nutritionist Deepsikha Jain (@fries.to.fit), stopping frying potatoes will not make you gain weight. Always cook potatoes for 6-7 hours, cool them and then eat them. Also, if you are trying to lose weight, eat potatoes as a snack or with a protein source instead of eating them with roti, rice, bread or any other carbohydrate source. This can help better control blood sugar levels and aid weight loss efforts.
Watch the full video below:
View this post on Instagram
Also read: Is it okay to eat sprouted potatoes? Experts point out some safety concerns
However, despite having many health benefits, you should consume potatoes or any other vegetable in moderation. Also, make sure not to fry potatoes and avoid eating highly processed snacks. Apart from boiling, you can also eat potatoes in baked or air-fried form.
