Gastroenterologist named the beneficial properties of potatoes

Potatoes are often demonized and considered a high-calorie product that should be excluded from the menu by anyone who follows the figure. Gastroenterologist Ekaterina Kashukh, an expert at the Hemotest Laboratory, told Izvestia on May 28 whether it is possible to include this tuber in the diet and in what form potatoes are dangerous to health.

"Potatoes contain dietary fiber, protein, vitamin C and B vitamins, magnesium and potassium. This tuber gives a long-lasting feeling of fullness and contains resistant starch, which is necessary for the nutrition of beneficial bacteria in the large intestine. This form of starch helps maintain the balance of the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract, slows down the absorption of sugar, and dulls hunger," the expert noted.

There are no generally accepted standards for the consumption of potatoes. But when making a menu, it is important to consider several points. The benefits of potatoes largely depend on the cooking method. According to the doctor, it is best if the tubers are boiled or baked in a uniform, and then cooled to room temperature.

"In this form, the tuber retains most of its useful properties, and the caloric content of the dish is low: 70-75 kcal per 100 g. Therefore, such a dish can be eaten quite often," she added.

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The caloric content of mashed potatoes with milk and butter is higher: 110-120 kcal per 100 g. Fried potatoes and French fries contain a large amount of saturated fats, which increase the risk of obesity and cardiovascular diseases, so such dishes should not be abused, Kashukh emphasized.

At the same time, potatoes contain a lot of carbohydrates. It is worth considering this when adding tubers to the diet, so as not to disrupt the recommended balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and fiber for a healthy diet.

"We must remember that the diet should be varied, only thanks to this the body receives all the necessary minerals and vitamins. Therefore, even with a great love for potatoes, it is worth replacing them from time to time with zucchini, sweet potatoes, buckwheat, vegetable stew or other side dishes," said the gastroenterologist.

Do not eat green or sprouted potatoes. These tubers contain solanine, a toxic substance that can lead to disruption of the digestive and nervous systems. Even one serving of such green potatoes can cause symptoms of poisoning — abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in more severe cases, seizures.

Earlier in the day, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko called for growing a lot of potatoes so that the republic and Russia would have enough. He added that in this way the country will help the Russian brothers.