Unearth the Nutritional Goodness of America’s Favorite Vegetable

Dig beneath the surface to unearth the nutritional goodness of America’s favorite vegetable

Denver, CO --Another day, another fad diet.  Rather than continuing the uphill battle of following the latest nutrition trend, why not take a minute to peel back the truth?  Discover what’s really good for you and your family and follow the experts at the United States Potato Board (USPB) as they debunk a few common nutrition myths about potatoes.  You’re going to love what they’ve dug up about your favorite vegetable!

Myth: Potatoes are not a vegetable.

Truth: The popular tuber counts toward the total recommended daily servings of vegetables.  One medium-size potato (5.3 oz.) counts as one cup of starchy vegetables (www.mypyramid.gov).

Myth: Potatoes are fattening.      

Truth: One medium-size potato (5.3 oz.) is fat- and cholesterol-free.

Myth: Potatoes don’t offer much in the way of providing important nutrients that are lacking in many American diets.

Truth: Potatoes rank highest for potassium content among the top 20 most frequently consumed raw vegetables and the top 20 most frequently consumed raw fruits.  Skin-on potatoes are a good source of potassium.  Potassium helps maintain normal blood pressure.

Myth: Potatoes are full of empty calories.

Truth: One medium-size potato (5.3 oz.) has 110 calories.  This particular myth may stem from the fact that some toppings increase caloric levels, so try using healthy alternatives like salsa, steamed veggies or low-fat sour cream.

Myth: Potatoes are a simple carbohydrate.

Truth: The majority of carbohydrates in potatoes are complex carbohydrates.  Complex carbohydrates are the type that fuel the body and brain and are the body’s main energy source.

Myth: Other than carbohydrates, potatoes don’t contain many nutrients.

Truth: A potato eaten with the skin offers important dietary fiber, is rich in vitamin C and a good source of both potassium and vitamin B6.  In addition, potatoes also have small amounts of nine other vitamins and minerals.

Myth: All the potato’s nutrients are found in the skin.    

Truth: In addition to a nutritious skin, potato flesh contains vitamin C, potassium and fiber, which is why it’s best to enjoy every part of the spud.

Myth: Potatoes don’t do the trick for me because I’m looking for foods that are rich in  antioxidants.    

Truth: Potatoes contain antioxidants. The amount and type depend on the variety of potato but the predominant antioxidants are certain carotenoids and anthocyanins.

Myth: Potatoes only taste good when they’re prepared in a fattening way.

Truth: Guess Again!  Try topping a baked potato with salsa, steamed vegetables or low-fat sour cream.  Or, mash potatoes with low-fat chicken broth.  Potatoes roasted with olive oil, garlic and a touch of herbs are delicious.  Click here for more healthy potato recipes.