Monday, June 8, 2009

Dieting with Potatoes

The blog on potatoes created some interest and today's blog hopefully will give you some important information about the nutritional aspects of this common veggie. I often hear folks explain that while they're dieting, they give up potatoes. Now the truth can be told! Don't do it! It's not the potato that's to blame - it's the butter, sour cream, bacon, and cheese that come along for the ride. And yet the potato gets the blame. Poor tater.

A few years back I decided to shed some avoirdupois and signed up for Weight Watchers. I was successful in that mission and learned that the key to weight management is portion control. While I was on that journey, potatoes were an important component of my diet. Why? They're good for you.

Here's what the Washington State Potato Commission has to say on the subject. The following info comes directly from their website at http://www.potatoes.com/Nutrition.cfm

An average-sized potato contains iron, 45% of your daily requirement of vitamin C, and 620 mg of potassium - more than a banana.

Potatoes contain no fat or cholesterol, minimal sodium, and natural fiber in the skins. A six-ounce potato contains 2 grams of highly digestible protein, almost as much as half a glass of milk.

Concerned about calories? A medium potato has only 110 calories and NO FAT. So, if you're looking to lose some weight, don't cut out potatoes. They're a good food.

3 comments:

  1. Since olive oil is so good for us (in moderation, of course), mixing a little oil with potato chunks or slices (skins scrubbed and still attached) and baking the potato pieces on a cookie sheet is a treat. Use mixtures of herbs for extra flavor and to minimize the need for salt.

    Patricia

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  2. Hey, Karen. What about carbs and the Glycemic index? Aren't Potatoes up there with a GI of like, 120? That spikes your blood surgar, right? South Beach people say,stay away from them. Your take on that?

    Best Regards, Galen.
    GalenKindley.com

    ReplyDelete
  3. Galen, all things in moderation. Most "diets" don't hold up over the long haul. Portion control, nutritious foods, and exercise remain the keys to effective weight management.

    ReplyDelete

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