The produce aisle is full of foods that are delicious and offer health benefits when eaten raw, from apples and blueberries to carrots and peppers. Some argue that this is the case with potatoes. But are they correct?
“Potatoes are one of the most versatile foods on the planet.” Registered Dietitian and Recipe Writer mika shiva told USA TODAY. “Some people tout the benefits of eating raw potatoes, but I don’t recommend it.”
This is why health experts express concern about the idea of consuming raw potatoes, even if there is some truth to their benefits.
Why do some people eat raw potatoes?
Raw potatoes have more vitamin C than cooked potatoes. sherry balla registered dietitian and nutritionist at Consumer Health Digest, told USA TODAY.
“Boiling potatoes reduces their vitamin C content by 62%,” she added. “When potatoes are baked, their vitamin C content decreases by 35% due to heat degradation.”
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s food database, a medium raw Russet potato contains about 16 grams of vitamin C. For reference, the recommended daily amount of vitamin C is 90 milligrams for men, 75 milligrams for women, and 120 milligrams for pregnant women. However, there are many foods that contain much higher amounts of vitamin C. 100 grams of kale contains about 93 mg, a medium kiwi has about 56 mg, and broccoli has about 51 mg.
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Can you eat raw potatoes?
It’s technically safe to eat raw potatoes in moderation. But at best, it can result in a bitter-tasting snack with few health benefits, and at worst, it can actually cause health problems.
“If you eat raw potatoes, it’s important to eat them in small portions to avoid digestive issues and headaches,” Boles says.
Which potatoes are the healthiest?The debate between sweets and “normal” has been completely settled.
Raw potatoes contain more vitamin C, but they also contain solanine and lectins, which make them difficult to digest and can be toxic in large doses.
“If it’s a small amount, there’s usually nothing to worry about,” Shiva says. However, cooked potatoes are safer and healthier because cooking potatoes almost eliminates them while providing health benefits such as improving the digestive, cardiovascular, muscular, and nervous systems. It’s a delicious and delicious option.
