The potato, commonly known as Solanum tuberosum, is one of the most widespread and fundamental foodstuffs globally. Its past extends back thousands of years, when it was first domesticated by the indigenous tribes of South America in the areas of present-day Peru and Bolivia. Since then, the potato has traversed a long path, gaining prominence on all continents and becoming an indispensable component of the diet of millions of people. It is worth being aware of the advantages of incorporating this vegetable into the daily menu.
The nutritional makeup of potatoes
A serving of 100 grams of potatoes provides: 77 kcal, 2.1 grams of dietary fiber, 17.5 grams of carbohydrates, primarily starch, 1.9 grams of protein, 0.1 grams of fat, and 79 grams of water. Moreover, they are an esteemed source of potassium, vitamin C, B6, and folic acid. Among the bioactive substances found in potatoes, antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid, lutein, and catechins, as well as glycoalkaloids, stand out. However, it is important to note that the latter can be detrimental to health if consumed in excessive quantities (USDA 2018).
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