Potatoes help to fuel an active lifestyle. They offer nutrient-dense carbs and potassium that can power athletic performance. Carbohydrates are a key source of energy for both your brain and muscles. The National Academy of Science recommends that both adults and children consume 130 grams of carbohydrates a day. Potatoes are nutrient-dense, so they can provide these carbohydrates along with essential vitamins and minerals. Potassium is an electrolyte that helps with muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function. However, before you reach for a banana, you might want to know that a medium skin-on potato contains more potassium (620 milligrams!).
Potatoes Power Performance
Carbohydrates are the major fuel source for the brain, nervous system and exercising muscles. Dietary carbohydrates are stored in the body primarily as glycogen in the muscle and liver. Unlike protein and fat, the body has limited carbohydrate reserves. These can be depleted in a single bout of exercise, so its important to consume carbohydrates daily to maintain glycogen stores and avoid fatigue. When glycogen stores are depleted, it can also lead to a process called gluconeogenesis where protein from muscle tissue is used to “make” carbohydrate. Therefore, it is important to consume a diet with adequate carbohydrate to prevent the loss of muscle tissue.
Potatoes Provide Affordable Nutrients
Eating healthy can be challenging for many reasons, including cost. Many find that eating healthy can be expensive. Luckily, potatoes can provide key nutrients at an affordable price. A serving of potatoes (5.3 ounces) will only set you back around $0.25. In fact, potatoes have the highest score per dollar on providing potassium, fiber, protein, vitamins C and E, calcium, iron and magnesium, beating out other vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots. Potatoes continue to be one of the greatest values in the produce department.
Fuel Your Active Lifestyle
Potatoes provide the carbohydrate and nutrients that you need to perform at your very best. Fuel your brain and body with potatoes!
