Health Benifits Of Eating Potato Skin

Admin

Health Benefits Of Eating Potato Skin

Potatoes are a versatile carbohydrate source that can be eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The tuber is a low calorie food high in vitamin C, vitamin B and beneficial iron. But it's not just the meat of the potato; potato skins are high in fiber and other vital nutrients.

Nutritious Food

The National Potato Council notes potatoes are low in calories, fat-free and cholesterol-free. A medium-sized potato contains only 100 calories per serving. Potatoes also are low in carbohydrates, weighing in at about 26 grams or 9 percent of the daily allowance. Tubers are a low sodium, low sugar food. A low calorie, nutritious diet is the foundation of any weight loss program. Diets low in sodium can help reduce the risk of stroke and high blood pressure.

Fiber

Potato skins offer 2 grams of fiber per serving, about 8 percent of the recommended daily allowance. Potatoes contain as much fiber as foods like whole wheat pasta, whole wheat bread and other fiber-rich whole grain products. Eating fiber helps lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Fiber also helps lower cholesterol, control blood sugar levels and create a feeling of fullness, which aids weight loss. The naturally occurring substance found in legumes, whole grains, vegetables and fruits can relieve or prevent constipation by promoting the movement of materials through your digestive tract.

Vitamin C

One whole potato with skin contains 45 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. The skin itself contains about 9 percent of the recommended daily allowance. Vitamin C helps to heal wounds and is high in cancer-fighting antioxidants. The vitamin also helps boost your immune system, allowing you to fight off disease.

Vitamin B and Iron

Potatoes with skin are rich in B vitamins. Vitamin B helps to synthesize muscle-building amino acids and healthy red blood cells. A single serving of potato skins offers 6 percent of the daily allowance of iron. Iron aids in oxygenating blood cells, improves muscle and brain function and prevents the onset of anemia