It’s time to toss out what we used to think about potatoes. Nowadays, they are more than potato chips, fries, and loaded with bacon and cheese. In fact, they’re offering some pretty sweet benefits in their lesser known state: juice. But before we squeeze them out, let’s learn about the goodies inside and what they mean for our health.
WHAT’S INSIDE POTATO JUICE:
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Fiber
- Vitamin B6
- Carbohydrates
- Folate
- …and more!
THE BENEFITS OF POTATO JUICE
Yes, yes, we know vitamins and minerals are good and now we know that potatoes have plenty of them. But I’m sure you’re wondering what specific benefits you’ll gulp with your cup of potato juice. Just as the juice is packed with healthy goodness, it is also packed with potential benefits to your health, big and small. Whether you’re just looking to wake up a bit or you’re ready to reduce your risk of heart disease, potato juice may be your answer. Although it does not sound too appealing, but you could probably combine it with other ingredients such as papaya. Papaya also has a string of benefits.
1. Smiles, healing, and immunity
The Vitamin C in potatoes is water-soluble and an antioxidant. It is connected to healing wounds. Vitamin C boosts gum health by boosting collagen production. Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron. Potatoes and their vitamin C are thought to even take care of your health by supporting the immune system. And with almost half of your daily-recommended dosage of Vitamin C in one potato, say ‘hello’ to healthy days.
2. Packed with potassium to ease the [blood] pressure
A decent diet full of potassium is researched to lower blood pressure and the risk of stroke, as long as your general diet is also low in sodium. Drinking your potatoes ensures you won’t be tempted to add salt to your potassium prizes. And they are the potassium king, boasting more potassium (per serving) than oranges, mushrooms, and even bananas.
3.Reduce health risks and feel fuller
The fiber in potato skins (yes, you can juice them with the skins) is thought to be packed with benefits. Fiber has demonstrated its role in lowering a variety of health risks from diabetes, to heart disease, as well as obesity. Potato juice, with its fiber punch, can make one feel fuller, acting as a weight management aide.
4. Rev that metabolism
Your potato juice is also a source of vitamin B6, and your metabolism (both carbohydrate and protein) depends on a dose of Vitamin B6. Your amino acids need it, too. Vitamin B6 helps the body in amino acid production, which helps the manufacturing of certain proteins.
5. Ease the arthritis
Raw Potato juice has long been used in folk medicine to treat arthritis. According to Dr. H.K.Bakhru (healthlibrary.com), therapy using raw potato juice ‘is considered one of the most successful biological treatments for rheumatic and arthritic conditions.’ Note: folk recipes and preparation procedures differ from modern juicing techniques.
6. Energy. Need I say more?
Sure, potato juice is just one component of a healthy lifestyle, but it can also play a part in pushing other healthy habits, too. Carbohydrates are a primary energy source for your body and potatoes contain both simple and complex carbohydrates.
7. Wake up! Potato Juice reduces tiredness.
The folate in potatoes plays a role in blood formation and helps the immune system run smoothly. It is also known to reduce feelings of fatigue.
Making it
You can use a juicer (there are multiple styles and gears) or simply soak and juice them by hand according to your dietician’s suggestions. Some folk recipes suggest soaking them overnight, though the potency may be too strong for some people (see precautions below). If you’re looking to curb your appetite, remember to leave the skins in the mix to ensure your fiber sticks around, too.
Maybe pure potato juice isn’t the taste you were craving. Feel free to add other vegetables and fruits to the mix (depending on your juicing technique). You can also add a dash of lemon juice, which will also help with discoloration. A small amount of honey can sweeten it up, if needed.
Finally, with all of the potential benefits of potato juice, it’d be a shame they all went to waste due to proceeding blindly or excessive haste. Please read the precautions below, carefully.
POTATO JUICE SIDE EFFECTS
- Healthy potatoes for a healthy you. Always wash potatoes thoroughly and remove all black spots–or, better yet, choose potatoes without the spots. Never use potatoes with any green discoloration.
- Drink it up, FAST! It’s best to drink the juice fresh, soon after making. Avoid storing the juice. Some recipes suggest otherwise. Consult a nutritionist for the best procedure for your individualized diet.
- Ask first. Of course, when beginning any new diet or regimen, you should consider your health conditions and consult your personal nutritionist, naturopathic guide, or physician.
- Moderation. It’s true what they say: there can be too much of a good thing. Be aware of any excessive increases in any food or vitamins and listen to your body.
