HEALTH BENEFITS OF POTATO
Funmilola Olapade
Potato is an edible tuber available worldwide and all year long. It is relatively cheap to get, rich in nutrients, and can make a delicious treat. Also used to ward off disease and benefits human health in many other ways. Potato can be healthful if prepared in the right way. A high intake of fruits and vegetables can benefit health and reduce the risk of many lifestyle-related health conditions. Potato contains important nutrients, even when cooked can benefit human health in various ways. The many health and skin benefits of potatoes make the vegetable all the more special.
Potato is an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, fibre, vitamin C, copper, tryptophan, manganese and even lutein. It also works wonders for curbing inflammation in the body and boost immunity and healthy blood circulation.
Here we look at 10 ways in which the potato might contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
1. IMPROVES BRAIN HEALTH
The alpha lipoic acid, a co-enzyme present in potatoes can help boost overall cognitive health. Experts have linked this acid to have beneficial effects on Alzheimer’s patients as well. A number of vitamins and minerals present in potatoes positively affect the function of the brain (including zinc, phosphorus, and B complex). Vitamin B6 is particularly critical to maintaining neurological health. Potatoes can help boost cognitive abilities.
2. BONE HEALTH
The iron, phosphorous, calcium, and zinc in potatoes all help the body to build and maintain bone structure and strength. Zinc play crucial roles in the production and maturation of collagen. Phosphorus and calcium are both important in bone structure, but it is essential to balance the two minerals for proper bone mineralization. Too much phosphorus and too little calcium result in bone loss and contribute to osteoporosis.”Rich in calcium and phosphorous, potatoes help strengthen bone”. The iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc present in potatoes all contribute to the building and maintenance of bone structure and strength. Potato has all these components.
3. SKIN
Did you know potato boasts of an excellent collagen boosting ability? A simple potato facial mask can help treat acne and other skin conditions like dark spots and blemishes. It has skin tightening properties and can reduce premature ageing and wrinkles. Since the skin under our eyes is thin, it tends to wrinkle fast; potato juice comes to the rescue. Collagen is the skin’s support system. Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to help prevent damage caused by the sun, pollution, and smoke. Vitamin C also helps collagen smooth wrinkles and improve overall skin texture.
4. FOR DARK CIRCLES AND PUFFY EYES
Peel a raw potato and slice it into large pieces. Now take a cloth or a towel and wrap the piece of potato in it and slowly place it over your dark circles. Let it sit for 20 minutes. Wash your eyes with water. Potatoes can help remove dark circles
5. REDUCING FINE LINES AND WRINKLES
The vitamin C content of the vegetable can bring down visible signs of ageing from your face. To get rid of the wrinkles, apply some potato juice on the affected area and see the results for yourself. You can also apply some finely mashed raw potato paste on the skin. Leave it on for about 15-20 minutes and rinse it off with water.
6. REMOVE DEAD SKIN CELLS
Potatoes can do wonders to exfoliate your skin from within. The antioxidant rich peels can be applied to skin to exfoliate the skin. Doing this can help remove dead skin cells and rejuvenate your skin. Apply potato juice on your face and neck to remove dead skin from your face. Potatoes can do wonders to exfoliate your skin
7. TREATS DRY SKIN
Rich in vitamin C, potatoes can help treat dry skin by nourishing it from within. Make a paste of grated potato and half a teaspoon of curd. Apply it on your face and leave it on for 20-25 minutes. Rinse it off with cold water. Use this regularly to have better results. Interesting, right? Rich in vitamin C, potatoes can help treat dry skin
8. HELP TREAT SUNBURNS
Potato juice or just two cut slice of potatoes can also help treat sunburns effectively. Take potato slices, preferably cold and apply it on the affected areas of your skin. If you have some potato juice you can dab it on the affected area. This would give out the cooling sensation to your sun burnt skin and help you repair your damaged skin. Potato juice or just two cut slice of potatoes can also help treat sunburns effectively
9. RELIEVE PREMENSTRUAL SYMPTOMS
According to some studies, potato juice could help alleviate Premenstrual syndrome symptoms. The high carb content of potatoes, helps elevate the levels of tryptophan, which further boosts the serotonin production in the body (Serotonin is also called the happiness hormone). This spike in serotonin helps improving mood and reduces anxiety. The potato juice benefits can help alleviate PMS symptoms.
10. PROMOTE SLEEP
Tryptophan, which is naturally found in potatoes, is a natural sedative that ensures good sleep. The potassium in potatoes acts as a muscle relaxant, which further ensures a more restful sleep and relaxation. Plus, it is a well-known fact that foods high in carbohydrates often inhibit regular sleeping patterns. It is highly essential, especially for coping with stress. Potato benefits promotes sound sleep
11. HELP PROMOTE DIGESTION
The high fibre content of potatoes aids smoother digestion. Fiber supports digestion and promotes bowel regularity by adding bulk to stool. Potatoes can also help quick recovery from diarrhea. Potatoes are rich in potassium, a mineral that is excessively lost during diarrhea. The high fibre content of potatoes aids smoother digestion. The fiber content in potatoes helps prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.
