THE HUMBLE POTATO

Potatoes are not just delicious, they are healthy for you! At Southern Spud we use Idaho Russet Potatoes for baking. Potatoes are Gluten Free, Fat Free, Cholesterol Free and a great source of vitamins and minerals.

According to the Idaho Potato Commission, a 6 oz potato contains 110 calories, 26 grams of Carbohydrates, 2 grams Fiber, 30% of your daily need of Vitamin C, and 620 mg Potassium. That is more Vitamin C and Potassium than eating an apple or banana! Plus the baked potatoes served at Southern Spud average 12-14 ounces per serving.

Potatoes are not empty calories, they provide many vitamins and minerals. One plain potato is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, folate, niacin, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, and manganese. To get the most micronutrients, you should eat the potato skin as well as the flesh, as some micronutrients are more concentrated in the skin. Potatoes contain significant amounts of fiber. Fiber helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease.

Potatoes are high in potassium, which works in opposition to sodium to help regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Potassium is also essential for normal muscle and nerve function. Vitamin C is needed for normal immune system function, blood clotting, and strong connective tissue and blood vessel walls. Potatoes also have a good concentration of antioxidant phytonutrients. [1]