Potatoes are one type of stem tuber often used as a substitute for rice. In general, potatoes have yellow flesh, but have you ever heard of purple potatoes? As the name implies, these purple potatoes are known to have purple flesh, with denser texture compared to potatoes in general. Purple potatoes also offer various health benefits for the body. As quoted from the Healthline page, here are some benefits of purple potatoes.
- Highly nutritious. As with other types of potatoes, purple potatoes are high in fibre, protein, and carbohydrates. Purple potatoes are also high in minerals such as potassium, iron, copper, and manganese as well as vitamins B6 and C. They are also low in calories, with only 87 calories in one serving.
- Maintain blood sugar. Potatoes are usually recommended for those with diabetes because of their low sugar content. Compared to yellow and white potatoes, purple potatoes have the lowest glycemic index of 77. In addition, purple potatoes also have high concentrations of polyphenol compounds, which reduce the amount of starch absorption in the intestine.
- High in antioxidants. As with other colorful fruits and vegetables, purple potatoes are rich in antioxidants. This is inseparable from the role of anthocyanin, antioxidant polyphenols associated with several benefits such as maintaining cholesterol levels, maintaining eye health, and reducing the risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
- Maintain blood pressure. Purple potatoes can improve blood vessel health and blood pressure, thanks to its high potassium and antioxidant content. Several studies have also found that purple potatoes can help reduce tension in the arteries by relaxing and strengthening blood vessels.
- Reducing the risk of cancer. Several studies have found that the compounds contained in purple potatoes, including antioxidants, can play a role in suppressing the growth of certain cancer cells, even killing them.
- Meet daily fiber needs. The body needs at least 25-29 grams of fiber per day. To meet these needs, including purple potatoes in the diet can be your choice. Dietary fibre can help you feel full longer, preventing constipation, helps stabilise blood sugar, and maintain cholesterol levels.
Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Google Search Images
Source:
- Healthline - Purple Power: 7 Benefits of Purple Potatoes (2019). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/purple-potatoes, November 25, 2019.