Every potato is a power-pack brimming with God’s goodness. In theory, we could survive on only potatoes, supplemented with the occasional leafy greens for chlorophyll.

Potatoes are Packed with Vitamins

Potatoes contain citamins C, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3, and B6 (pyridoxine). The recommended daily amount of vitamin C is found in 14 oz of potato.

The vitamin content is at its peak at harvest time, and decreases during storage. More vitamins disappear during cooking. Potatoes boiled in their skins and large baked potatoes lose about 20-40% of their vitamin C alone, while French fries and roast potatoes lose about 30-40%, and peeled, boiled potatoes lose as much as 30-50%.

Potatoes Contain High-grade Protein

The quality of protein we consume matters more than the quantity. Potato protein is an ideal blend of essential amino acids.

Potatoes are Rich in Minerals

The high potassium content of potatoes makes them an ideal way to offset the surplus acid found in meat and dairy products. Many people suffer from iron and magnesium deficiencies—particularly those who are pregnant or very active in sports. Those who eat potatoes regularly have no need to take iron or magnesium supplements.

Potatoes are Low in Calories

Many people would be surprised to learn that 3.5 oz of boiled potatoes contain only about 80 calories.

Potatoes Contain Complex Carbohydrates

Some believe that carbohydrates lead to excess weight. However, complex carbohydrates such as starch and fiber are the body’s most important source of energy.

During digestion, starch is converted to energy and stored in the liver and muscles. Fiber is a vital aid to digestion. Fiber-rich foods stay in the system only half as long as those with little fiber.

Potatoes are Very Low in Fat

The fat content of potatoes is less than 1%. This tiny quantity includes “good” essential fatty acids. Potatoes are a great way to lose excess pounds without feeling that you are starving yourself. However, be careful not to add too much fat from other sources when preparing and serving them.

Potatoes are Disease Fighters

Diabetes

Those with diabetes must have a steady supply of complex carbohydrates, but not in excessive quantities to avoid creating too much sugar in the blood. On a potato diet, diabetics can lose weight without any harmful side effects.

Gout

Gout is mainly caused by consuming too much meat and animal fat. One of the symptoms is the overproduction of uric acid. The most important part of treatment is a diet low in this acid. Since potatoes contain very little uric acid, potatoes can be the main ingredient in an anti-gout diet.

Kidney Problems

To avoid having to resort to dialysis, people with kidney failure must eat little protein, which must also be of high quality. Because of their high-grade protein, potatoes are good for kidney patients.

Potatoes are excellent for urinary tract infection as well, because they alkalize the mucous membranes to force bacteria to be passed out in the urine.

High Blood Pressure

When certain bodily functions are disturbed, the kidneys excrete insufficient sodium, which leads to raised blood pressure or hypertension. Sufferers are prescribed an extremely low-sodium diet. This means eating foods naturally low in sodium and avoiding or restricting the use of salt in their preparation. Potatoes are the perfect low-sodium food, provided they are not covered in salt!

Celiac Disease

While doctors say there is no cure for this grain intolerance, people with this condition find potatoes easy to take.

Potatoes as a Home Remedy

Potatoes can be used in dozens of cases of sickness or injury. Here are a few proven easy-to-follow home remedies:

Diarrhea: Eat unsalted potatoes mashed with water.

Indigestion: Eat potatoes raw, about ½ cup.

Heartburn and Gas: Drink freshly squeezed potato juice first thing in the morning.

Ulcers: Drink one quart of potato juice throughout the day, after meals.

Sore Throat: Make a compress by placing hot, mashed, unpeeled, boiled potatoes in a linen or cotton cloth, and then apply to affected area.

Burns: Apply cold, crushed, raw potato in the area. If not cold, mix with ice.

Boils: Make a poultice of raw potatoes; apply and change every eight hours.

Constipation: Eat unpeeled boiled potatoes or drink the juice to soothe inflamed tissue and provide bulk to the stool.

Colds and Flu: Fast from all processed foods. Eat boiled potatoes with carrots, onions, celery, and parsley.ⁱ

Be inspired by our power-packed potato recipes.