How Many Calories Are in a Potato?
Potatoes are one of the staples of almost any diet. There have been concerns that the potato is not a healthy food. This is not true. The natural potato adds potassium, vitamin C and fiber to the diet. There are many myths which are believed to be fact when it comes to the potato. The potato is a very healthy vegetable which can be enjoyed without feeling guilty.
Misconceptions
Rumors spread about many things. The potato is no different. The potato is not a high-calorie food item full of fats. The potato contains almost half the recommended daily value of Vitamin C. Potatoes have the most potassium of any of the raw vegetables people eat. There is no cholesterol in a potato, either.
Types
There are many varieties of potatoes. There is the baking variety and the boiling variety. The potato used for boiling is great for making potato salads, stews and soups. The boiled potato contains a higher starch content which keeps them from falling apart when they are cooked. The baking variety becomes fluffy and tender when they are baked.
Benefits
Potatoes should be included in everyone's diet. The vitamins and minerals contained in a potato are Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, potassium, and others. Potatoes also contain anti-oxidants. The potato is a very healthy part of any diet. It is the added condiments which can make the potato an unhealthy meal choice.
Considerations
An average-sized potato contains only 110 calories. It is the way people eat a potato that causes the calorie count to increase. By preparing the potato as french fries or potato chips adds the greasy calories and fat. This is not good for someone wanting a healthy diet. Potatoes can be prepared in such a way as to keep the health benefits without adding extra calories.
Prevention/Solution
To keep the potato on the dinner plate consider using alternative ways to cooking them. Use chicken broth to boil potatoes instead of water. By adding some sea salt and a little garlic, you can create a healthy side dish. Top baked potatoes with low fat sour cream and fresh chives. Forget the butter. Butter just adds extra fat and calories. You can even top the potato with fresh salsa for an added zip.
Tags: potato contains, baking variety, Calories Potato, diet There, extra calories