Jul 28, 2025

Aarushi Bhadury

Should Potatoes Be The Part Of A Healthy Diet?

​Are Potatoes Vegetables ​

Yes, potatoes are starchy vegetables. This means they contain more starch than other vegetables. This isn't bad; it just means they offer more energy (calories) and a little less fiber, making them a good energy source.

Credit: Canva

​Potatoes as an Energy Source ​

Starch is a carbohydrate our body turns into sugar for energy. So, starchy foods like potatoes are great for adding calories and making meals filling. They give a satisfying feeling to hungry families.

Credit: Canva

​Other Starchy Vegetables ​

Potatoes are part of a group of starchy vegetables. Other examples include corn, green peas, winter squash (like butternut), sweet potatoes, and yams. Beans and lentils also fall into this category, providing similar energy.

Credit: Canva

​Rich in Essential Nutrients ​

Beyond starch, potatoes offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They're high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that prevented scurvy long ago. Potatoes also provide potassium, vital for heart, muscle, and nerve function. Their skin has good fiber for digestion.

Credit: Canva

You may also like

Best And Worst Foods To Lower Blood Pres...
Low-Impact Cardio Workouts You Should Tr...

​Benefits of Different Potato Types ​

Different colored potatoes offer more nutrients. Generally, darker potatoes have more antioxidants. Sweet potatoes provide Vitamin A for eyes and immunity. Purple potatoes are rich in anthocyanins, which may help heart and brain health, and potentially fight cancer.

Credit: Canva

​Common Potato Varieties ​

Potatoes come in various colors, shapes, and sizes. Common types include small fingerlings, large russets, sweet potatoes with orange flesh, white and red potatoes, and purple potatoes with their distinct color throughout.

Credit: Canva

​What Makes Potatoes Unhealthy ​

Potatoes become less healthy when piled with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and bacon. These additions add many extra calories and unhealthy fats. Eaten simply and mindfully, potatoes remain a nutritious and satisfying food.

Credit: Canva

​Why Include Potatoes in Your Diet ​

Potatoes are budget-friendly and very healthy. They provide energy, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Try different types of potatoes in your diet to get the most nutritional benefits from these versatile vegetables.

Credit: Canva

​Healthy Potato Recipe Ideas ​

For balanced meals, consider healthy potato recipes. Examples include chipotle mashed sweet potatoes, grilled chicken with roasted veggie potato corn cakes, and roasted sweet potatoes with Brussels sprouts.

Credit: Canva

Thanks For Reading !

Next: Best And Worst Foods To Lower Blood Pressure

See more stories