Are Potatoes Good For Cholesterol? Things To Consider While Eating!

The answer to this question is not as simple or straightforward as you might think. Potatoes are a member of the nightshade family which also includes tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers.

These foods have been linked to inflammation in the body and many health experts recommend avoiding them if you have any chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, heart disease, asthma, or autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

There is some evidence that potatoes may be bad for cholesterol, but only if you eat them frequently or in large amounts. So if you enjoy eating potatoes occasionally, there’s no need to worry about their effect on your blood cholesterol levels.

Facts About Potatoes

Potatoes are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber. They also contain iron and magnesium.

Potato skins are an excellent source of healthy nutrients such as beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A. The skins also contain quercetin, an antioxidant that helps prevent cancer and heart disease, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.

Potato skins are edible. If you don’t like eating them, discard them after cooking. If you do cook with their skin on, peel them before eating so you can remove any dirt or chemicals that may have adhered to the skin during storage or transport.

Potatoes are usually served boiled with butter or margarine or mashed with milk or cream as well as used in soups and salads. They’re also baked into casseroles and stews and made into potato chips or French fries — all foods that can contribute to weight gain if eaten frequently.

What Effects Will We Face If We Eat Too Many Potatoes?

If you’re like most people, you probably love potatoes. They’re versatile, filling, and delicious. But as with anything, you can have too much of a good thing. Here’s what could happen if you eat too many potatoes.

Your Bood Sugar Could Spike

Potatoes are relatively high on the glycemic index, which means they can cause your blood sugar to rise relatively quickly. This is fine in moderation, but if you’re eating a lot of potatoes, it could cause your blood sugar to spike too high, leading to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and even dizziness.

You Could Gain Weight

Potatoes are also high in calories and carbs, which means they can cause weight gain if you’re not careful. So if you’re trying to watch your weight, it’s best to limit your potato intake.

You Could End Up With Potato Addiction

Yes, it’s a real thing. Eating too many potatoes can lead to what’s known as “potato addiction.” Symptoms include cravings for potatoes, binge eating, and feeling irritable or “hangry” when you don’t have them. If you think you might be addicted to potatoes, it’s best to talk to a doctor or nutritionist to get help.

In short, eating too many potatoes can have some undesirable effects. So enjoy them in moderation and your body will thank you.