Let’s tackle the sacred cows by dispelling trending, even juicy tales propagated by the rumour mill, newsmongers and tattlers. You’ve probably heard them; unfounded claims propelled by so-called “experts” that have no difficulty going viral because of their outrageous claims regarding potatoes.
We’re simply going to lay down the facts and let you make up your mind about South Africa’s number one vegetable – and the role of potatoes when it comes to heart health. In case you’re not entirely convinced about the big deal regarding heart health, here’s food for thought. Heart disease is the world’s number one killer, claiming the lives of almost 17 million people per year. If you’re still wondering how potatoes fit into this equation, we will neither keep you hanging any more nor leave you wanting for potato-infused recipes.
Backed by science
According to their website, “The Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa (HSFSA) plays a leading role in the fight against preventable heart disease and stroke, with the aim of seeing fewer people in South Africa suffer premature deaths and disabilities.” It is worth noting that potatoes, cooked with their skin on and in a heart-healthy way, are endorsed by HSFSA.
Goodness from the earth
When Potatoes South Africa (PSA) keeps talking about the goodness from the earth, it is more than just a catchy slogan. Potatoes really are spud-tacular humble spuds filled with untold goodness.
- Potatoes* are high in carbohydrates, are naturally free of fat and naturally very low in sodium.
- Potatoes* are high in the mineral chromium.
- Potatoes* have the highest level of potassium when compared to other vegetables and starchy foods.
- Potatoes* are versatile and can be cooked in a number of ways.
* With skins on
Aluta Continua (“The struggle continues”)
In Mzansi (South Africa), while HIV and Aids are the number one killers, heart disease and strokes follow closely behind. Research suggests that 1 in every 5 deaths is caused by heart diseases and strokes. This results in an outstanding 82,000 lives lost annually!
Potatoes help to protect your heart. Their potassium helps maintain a proper fluid balance, regulates blood pressure, and supports muscle function, including the heart muscle. The insoluble fibre found in potatoes fights against heart disease by binding with blood cholesterol, so it does not build up in the blood. This, in turn, reduces the risk of a heart attack.
Do your part
“Potatoes are cheap. They make you feel full and they promote a healthy body, including a healthy heart. That makes them a healthy and cost-effective alternative for other forms of refined starch, but everything depends on how you cook them, and what else you put on the plate,” says Claire Julsing-Strydom, a registered dietitian.
The best way to cook a potato is cooked/boiled/baked with the skin on, and served with low-fat, low-sugar fillings. One can also roast them lightly covered in oil. Visit Potato Nation to bust potato-related myths and to get more information regarding potatoes and heart health.
Read up more on the above under our Health and Nutrition section at www.potatonation.co.za
