The potential benefits of potatoes

Potatoes are one of the cheapest universal crops to produce year-round is packed with a variety of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals that ward off disease and benefit human health.

Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like potatoes decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight. Potatoes contain a compound known as alpha-lipoic acid, which helps the body to convert glucose into energy. Some evidence suggests that alpha-lipoic acid can aid in blood glucose control, improve vasodilation and protect against retinopathy in diabetic patients and help preserve brain and nerve tissue. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in potato skin, possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant capabilities that protect the body's cells from free radical damage. The minerals in potatoes all contribute to the building and maintaining of bone structure and strength.

The potato's fiber, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin B-6 content, coupled with its lack of cholesterol, all support heart health. High fiber helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease and also lower risk of colorectal cancer. Vitamin B-6 prevents the buildup of a compound known as homocysteine. When excessive amounts of homocysteine accumulate in the body, it can damage blood vessels and lead to heart problems.