In terms of human consumption, potato is the world's third largest food crop after rice and wheat. More than 1 billion people in the world eat potatoes, and the total global crop production exceeds 300 million metric tons.
There are more than 4,000 types of native potatoes, most of which are grown in the Andes. Moreover there are more than 180 kinds of wild potatoes. Although they are too bitter to eat, their important biodiversity includes natural resistance to pests, diseases, and weather conditions.
The book "Healing Foods" by DK Publishing states that potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, B vitamins, copper, tryptophan, manganese and even lutein. It can also magically help to cure inflammation in the body, improve immunity and healthy blood circulation.
Benefits of potato
Here are few important benefits of potatoes that you must know;
Helps in reducing inflammation: According to the book experts anti-inflammatory properties of potatoes soothe stomach and duodenum ulcers and reduce stomach acidity. They may also relieve the inflammation associated with arthritis."
Maintain blood pressure: Macrobiotic nutritionist and Health Practitioner Shilpa Arora has said “Potatoes have about 100 calories, but its highly nutritious and it is only the way we cook potatoes that have given it a bad rep. It is beneficial for those people who are suffering from high blood pressure and water retention because it balances high sodium levels”.
Cure diseases related to heart: Potatoes have no cholesterol. Only ingredients rich in oil and cholesterol used in cooking pose a threat to the heart. In fact, the antioxidant anthocyanins in potatoes can do wonders for your heart. They also contain fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and B6, all of which are good for heart health.
Good for brain health: Alpha lipoic acid is one of the co-enzyme in potatoes that can help promote overall cognitive health. Experts have linked this acid to the beneficial effects of Alzheimer'spatients. Vitamin B6 is especially important for maintaining nervous health.
Improves digestion: We know potatoes are good source of vitamins, calcium and iron. According to the International Potato Center, one serving of boiled potatoes with the skin on provides 10 percent of fiber and half of your vitamin C needs. Potatoes can also help people recover quickly from diarrhea. Potatoes are very good source of potassium, on of the mineral that is excessively lost during diarrhea.
Good for bones: The magnesium, zinc and phosphorus found in potatoes are quite helpful in building and maintaining bone structure and strength. Zinc and iron play an essential role in the production and maturation of collagen. Potatoes have all of these ingredients.
Good for skin: Potatoes have an excellent collagen boosting property. A simple potato facial mask can help treat other skin conditions such as acne, age spots and dullness. Vitamin C content in vegetables can reduce the visible signs of aging from the face. To remove wrinkles, apply potato juice to the affected area and check the results directly. You can apply finely crushed chewing gum paste to your skin. Leave for about 15 to 20 minutes and rinse with water.
Potatoes are a versatile root and a staple food in many homes. They are underground tubers that grow from the roots of the Solanumtuberosum plant. Potatoes are relatively inexpensive, easy to grow, and rich in a variety of nutrients.
