Potatoes - a fall harvest

A root vegetable and a staple in most homes, usually readily available. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, B6, potassium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, niacin and folate. The majority of these nutrients are found in the skins and can be affected depending on how they are prepared. In addition, potatoes contain flavonoid, carotenoids, and phenolic acids which act as antioxidants in the body neutralizing harmful free radicals. Reducing these radicals reduces the risk of chronic heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Potatoes also contain a starch known as resistant starch.  This is a starch that does not brake down which means the body doesn’t absorb it. It then flows down to large intestine where it becomes a beneficial bacteria. This then reduces insulin resistance, that in turn improves blood sugar control. Potatoes also improve colon health, by strengthening the colon’s defenses thus reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.  Potatoes can be used as wraps for muscle and bone pain, for swelling and itching (dermatitis and insect bites), and bruising plus drinking potato juice helps with stomach acid and GERD.