It's not an appealing thought at all, to only be able to eat one food for the rest of your life. Nonetheless, it does make one curious. If a person could only consume one food, which one food would sustain us the best and the longest?
Due to the widely controversial topic of fibre and the growing popularity of a carnivore diet, we focus on:
If a human could only eat one food forever, with the absence of meat, the best option would be... potatoes.
This is because potatoes are a complex carbohydrate that provide a good source of energy and contain almost all the essential vitamins and minerals needed to sustain life! These golden gems are one of the most widely consumed vegetables in the world, and for good reason.
Potatoes are a great source of dietary fibre, which helps to maintain healthy digestion and bowel movements. They also contain high amounts of potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and iron, all of which are crucial for maintaining overall health. Additionally, potatoes are low in fat and cholesterol, which makes them a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight and lower risk of heart disease.
Potatoes also have a high satiety value due to their high fibre content and low glycemic index (longer time to digest) compared to simple carbohydrates like sugar. This means they help to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. People with diabetes or those at risk for developing diabetes, require a diet with low glycemic index foods to regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the onset of the disease.
"Money is the root of all evil, and yet it is such a useful root that we cannot get on without it any more than we can without potatoes."
- Louisa May Alcott, novelist (1832-1888)
Here are 7 nutritional benefits of potatoes:
1. Rich in vitamin C: an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in strengthening the immune system, healing wounds, and maintaining healthy skin and bones. It is also an important antioxidant that fights against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
2. High in fibre: Maintains digestive health.
3. Good source of potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure, heart health and fluid balance. A medium-sized potato contains approximately 620 milligrams of potassium, which is more than a banana.
4. Low in fat: A great addition to a healthy diet. They are also cholesterol-free.
5. Rich in antioxidants: Such as carotenoids and flavonoids, which can help protect against oxidative stress and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
6. High in complex carbohydrates: Provide sustained energy for the body. Potatoes are also a good source of protein and essential amino acids.
7. Contains other important vitamins and minerals: Including vitamin B6 (key role in brain development and function), folate, iron, and magnesium. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
In addition to their health benefits, potatoes are also incredibly versatile in the kitchen as they can be:
boiled,
baked,
roasted,
mashed,
fried, and more...
Making them a great addition to any meal including soups, stews, casseroles, salads, or a simple side dish. And with so many different types of potatoes available, there is a potato to suit every taste and recipe.
Naturally, relying solely on one food for sustenance is not recommended as it can lead to several nutritional deficiencies. Variety is key when it comes to maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. Additionally, not all potato preparations are equally healthy. Deep-frying french fries or potato chips can greatly increase calorie and fat content, while also potentially adding harmful substances like acrylamide. Maximum nutritional benefits of potatoes are best when prepared by baking, boiling, or roasting.
Overall, potatoes are a highly nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They offer a range of health benefits, from their high nutrient content to their ability to aid in weight management and regulate blood sugar levels. So, if you ever find yourself only allowed to pick one food for the rest of your life, consider reaching for the potato.