Sunday, July 25, 2010

INDULGE FOR YOUR HEALTH By Valerie Hould-Marchand

Boiled, mashed, steamed or baked to a perfect golden brown… Potatoes are a favorite when it comes to comfort food. But they are not only extremely satisfying, they are a great choice whether you are a healthy eater or on a diet.

There are many reasons to eat your spuds! One serving provides an excellent source in vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, thiamin, niacin and fiber. Potatoes can help to fight infection and protect against cancer. Their rich stores of potassium regulates blood pressure and heart function. Their starch content and vitamins are found in the center of the potatoes, while most minerals are found under the skin. Also, they contain anticancer properties and balance acidity and alkalinity in the body.

On the flip side, potatoes are known to raise insulin and blood sugar levels quickly. Therefore, they can be detrimental for people suffering from diabetes and arthritis.

When you receive your spuds from Green Earth Organics, store them in a cool dark place preferably stored in a brown paper bag. Also, avoid storing them in the refrigerator; it causes their starch content to convert into sugar.



THE SWEETER THE BETTER

There are numerous varieties of potatoes, however, sweet potatoes deserve a special mention. They promote bone and tooth development, reduce the risk of cancer and osteoporosis, and help the body release energy from nutrients ingested. And for those of you counting carbs, they are lower in carbohydrates than white potatoes! So go on… Indulge for your health!


FUN FACTS
-Wild potatoes originated in the Andes and were first cultivated 7000 years ago. By the 1400s it became a staple crop of the Incas, who named them papas. When it made its way to Spain they referred to them as batatas, and the French called it pomme de terre.

-In 1995, the potato was the first vegetable grown in space by NASA.

There are more than 200 varieties of this yummy member of the nightshade family! Enjoy!


Heal yourself
Heal the planet

Valerie


Sources: Alive Academy
www.harvestofthemonth.com

1 comment:

  1. Loved your article! just one thing in Spain papas are called "patatas" because "batatas" mean sweet potatos. :)

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