Many people do not consider potatoes a healthy food, believing they are just “empty calories.” Some exclude them from their diet to avoid weight gain, while others fear spikes in blood sugar because potatoes are rich in starch. However, the claim that potatoes are harmful for everyone is a myth.
According to nutritionist Natalya Denisova, potatoes contain a large amount of potassium, which is especially beneficial for people with high blood pressure. In an interview with aif.ru, she called potatoes one of the suitable foods for people with hypertension.
The specialist explained that potassium helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Potatoes are also rich in vitamins B, PP and C, as well as calcium, phosphorus and iron.
To preserve the maximum amount of nutrients, Denisova recommends boiling potatoes with their skins on.
She also noted that boiled potatoes are relatively low in calories – about 76 calories per 100 grams, while the same amount of French fries contains around 300 calories.
At the same time, potatoes have a high glycemic index, which can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels. Therefore, people with diabetes should consume potatoes in moderation.
