Potatoes are a popular food in many parts of the world, and people can create many different recipes. Although this vegetable has its own benefits with countless essential vitamins and minerals, potatoes are high in carbohydrates that can increase blood sugar levels and promote obesity.
Foods like potato chips are notorious for causing weight gain and putting people at risk for heart disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases. However, eating boiled or baked potatoes may be a healthier way for those who love this dish to enjoy it.
Boiled or baked potatoes, which cooking method is healthier?
If you have to choose between boiled potatoes and baked potatoes, the decision often comes down to personal preference and dietary goals, according to Dr. Archana Batra, Indian nutritionist and diabetes educator.
“Both preparation methods have their own benefits, and understanding these can help you make an informed choice,” she says.
Boiled potatoes are generally considered healthier due to their lower calorie content. When boiled, potatoes retain most of the vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin C, B6 and potassium, which are necessary for various body functions.
Eating boiled potatoes also increases the resistant starch content of the potatoes. Resistant starch benefits gut health by acting as a prebiotic, nourishing good bacteria in your gut.
Additionally, boiled potatoes have a lower glycemic index than baked potatoes, meaning they have a lesser impact on blood sugar levels, making them a better choice for people managing diabetes. .
Health benefits of eating baked potatoes
Eating baked potatoes has its own advantages. As baking potatoes causes some of the water to evaporate, concentrating flavor and nutrients.
This cooking method also ensures the potato skins become crispy and delicious while still maintaining a high fiber content.
Fiber is important for digestive health. Furthermore, baked potatoes contain plenty of potassium per serving of boiled potatoes, which is very beneficial for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.
Eating boiled or baked potatoes, which is better?
Although everyone’s preferences are different, many people still find baked potatoes to have a better flavor than boiled potatoes.
Both boiled and baked potatoes have distinct health benefits and flavors. Eating boiled potatoes is lower in calories and has a lower glycemic index, making it suitable for people monitoring their blood sugar levels.
Eating baked potatoes is a delicious and fiber-rich choice with rich flavor and higher potassium content. The choice between these two ultimately depends on health goals and personal preferences.