A versatile and popular food, baked potatoes can be eaten in many ways. This staple dish is served in many cultures and can be cooked differently. Although potatoes have recently received a bad rap for being high-carbohydrate foods, they are heart-healthy if prepared correctly. In this article, we will examine why baked potatoes in oven are healthy for the heart and how they can fit into a heart-healthy diet.
Nutrients in Baked Potatoes
They are rich in potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. The high potassium content helps to reduce blood tension by counteracting sodium’s effects. Also, baked potatoes are a good source of fiber which lowers cholesterol levels and helps reduce heart disease.
The baked potato also contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects the heart and other vital organs against damage caused by free radicals. The baked potatoes also contain vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that can help protect the heart and other organs from damage caused by free radicals. Heart disease is linked to high levels of homocysteine.
Low On Fat And Calories
They are low in fats and calories. If prepared without added oils or fats, baked potatoes are healthy for the heart and can be part of a balanced meal. A medium-sized potato with the skin left on has around 150 calories and contains less than 0.02 grams of fat. This makes them the perfect choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain their weight.
Heart-Healthy Ways to Enjoy Baked Potatoes
Even though baked potatoes, on their own, are a healthy food for the heart and arteries, their nutritional content can be greatly affected by how they are cooked. Here are a couple of heart-healthy recipes for baked potatoes.
Baked Potatoes Spiced with Herbs
Instead of butter or sour cream, top your baked potatoes with herbs and spices such as paprika, parsley, chives, and other herbs. These seasonings can add flavor without adding fat or calories.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potatoes are an excellent alternative to regular potatoes. They make delicious fries when baked. Sweet potato is high in fiber as well as vitamin A. This is good for your heart.
Baked Potatoes w/ Salsa
Topping your baked potatoes will be healthier than using toppings high in fat, like bacon or cheese. Salsa, which is low in fat and calories, is a great source of vitamin C.
Baked Potato Soup
A heart-healthy version of this versatile dish is baked potato. The soup will still have a creamy texture while reducing the fat by substituting almond milk or low-fat dairy milk for the cream.
Baked Potatoes and Vegetables
You can make your baked potatoes healthier by adding vegetables. Try topping your baked potato with steamed or roasted broccoli.
Conclusion
They are heart-healthy and can be eaten in different ways. Low in fat and calories, baked potatoes are an excellent source of nutrients such as fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. In a heart-healthy preparation, baked potatoes can add nutrition to a balanced meal. If you need a healthy, delicious side dish next time, bake some potatoes!
