Article courtesy of Dr. Joel Kahn, MD, who is a Clinical Professor of Medicine at Wayne State University School of Medicine, one of the world’s top cardiologists, a best-selling author, lecturer, and a leading expert in plant-based nutrition and holistic care.
The “low-carb” movement (ketogenic, Paleo, carnivore diets) has given potatoes a bad name. Even the Harvard School of Public Health does not list them as a healthy food, undoubtedly because so many potatoes are eaten as french fries, not simply boiled or baked. Other advocates, particularly, the recently deceased John McDougal, MD, have promoted potatoes as a central staple in a healthy diet.
What does the science say? A new study sheds important light on the healthy aspects of eating potatoes
STUDY
Adults from 3 Norwegian counties were invited to 3 health screenings in 1974–1988 (>80% attendance). Dietary data were collected using semiquantitative food frequency questionnaires at each screening to categorize weekly potato consumption (≤6, 7–13, or ≥14 potatoes/wk) and calculate daily cumulative mean intakes (grams/day).
The endpoints were the risk of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and acute myocardial infarction (AMI).
STUDY RESULTS
Among 77,297 participants with a mean baseline age of 41 years, we observed 27,848 deaths, including 9072 deaths due to CVD, over a median follow-up of 33 years.
Participants who consumed ≥14 potatoes/wk had a 12% lower risk of all-cause death compared with those consuming ≤6 potatoes/wk.
Potato consumption was associated with a minor, inverse risk of death due to CVD, IHD, and AMI (more potatoes, fewer events).
Each 100 g/d increment in potato consumption was associated with a 4% lower risk of death from all causes, ischemic heart disease overall, and acute myocardial infarction.
CONCLUSION
A generally high consumption of predominantly boiled potatoes was associated with a lower risk of death from all causes, including CVD, and IHD. There were no signals of harm from eating a high amount of potatoes.
Potatoes contain antioxidants and supply beneficial vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, B6, and potassium. They may also benefit your digestive health. Potatoes are a versatile root vegetable and a staple food in many households. Potatoes are relatively cheap, easy to grow, and packed with a variety of nutrients.
It appears that there is no reason to fear a boiled or baked potato, even on a regular basis. Carbs like cookies are a no, and carbs like potatoes are a yes.
About the author: At his core, Dr. Joel Kahn believes that plant-based nutrition is the most powerful source of preventative medicine on the planet. Having practiced traditional cardiology since 1983, it was only after his own commitment to a plant-based vegan diet that Dr. Kahn truly began to delve into the realm of non-traditional diagnostic tools, prevention tactics, and nutrition-based recovery protocols.
As with anything you read on the internet, this article should not be construed as medical advice; please talk to your doctor or primary care provider before changing your wellness routine. WHN does not agree or disagree with any of the materials posted. This article is not intended to provide a medical diagnosis, recommendation, treatment, or endorsement. Additionally, it is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Content may be edited for style and length.
References/Sources/Materials provided by:
https://www.kahnlongevitycenter.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-kahn-md-757a59225
https://www.facebook.com/drjoelkahn
https://www.kahnlongevitycenter.com/blog/putting-the-potato-back-on-your-plate-a-longevity-food
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022316624002888?via%3Dihub
https://worldhealth.net/news/its-not-them-its-you-why-potatoes-dont-deserve-their-bad-reputation/
