Health benefits of potatoes
Whilst the nutrient profile varies depending on the variety of potato overall here are some of the health benefits of potatoes:
Gut health - potatoes are high in dietary fibre which helps keep your bowels moving and helps decrease the risk of chronic disease.
Antioxidants - yep, you read that right, potatoes are high in antioxidants which help reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Controls blood sugar - starch is one of the reasons why people don’t like potatoes but it should be why they love it! Resistant starch helps feed the good bacteria in your gut and helps control blood sugar and insulin levels.
Appetite - potatoes are known as one of the most filling foods around, they’ll keep you full so you won’t consume additional calories. One study found that boiled potatoes were considered seven times more satiating than a croissant.
Muscle function - potatoes contain high amounts of potassium which is essential for nerve and muscle function.
Health risks
Weight gain - the jury is out on this one. There have been numerous studies conducted into the correlation between weight gain and potato consumption and whilst some have seen weight gain others have seen no real difference.
Toxic glycoalkaloids - green potatoes contain high concentrations of glycoalkaloids which can be toxic if eaten in excess. The glycoalkaloids are mostly found in the peel when it turns green as it ages and is exposed to sunlight. Store your potatoes properly to avoid this.
Types of potatoes
We’re spoilt for choice in Australia with an array of potatoes on offer.
Desiree potatoes
With their crisp red skin and dark spots, Desiree potatoes have creamy insides that are perfect for boiling and mashing.
Dutch cream
Dutch cream potatoes have an extremely creamy and buttery flesh which are great for adding to purees and soups.
Kipfler
Known for their unique finger-like shape, Kipfler potatoes are great for roasting and baking.
Nadine potato
When you see whitewashed potatoes in your supermarket, chances are it is probably a Nadine. With a smooth exterior and creamy interior, Nadine potatoes are one of the most versatile potatoes.
Russet potatoes
When it comes to fries and wedges chances are you’re eating a Russet potato. With a large elongated shape and deep “eyes”, they are our most popular potato.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes have skyrocketed in popularity over the last couple of years. Their orange flesh is rich in antioxidants and their sweet flavour makes them perfect for just about anything. Nutritionally speaking there isn’t much difference between orange and white flesh.
Cooking with potatoes
Potatoes are extremely versatile, you can roast them, mash them, bake them, boil them, steam them, and fry them. Here are a couple of our favourite healthy potato recipes.
Crisp garlic potatoes
Try these warming crisp garlic potatoes with your next roast. Get the full recipe.
Stuffed roast potatoes
These hot potatoes are bursting at the seams with all sorts of tasty fillings. Get the full recipe.
