It’s no secret that we love potatoes here at Bannisters’ Farm. They taste great, they’re incredibly versatile and they’re absolutely jammed-packed with goodness. So as National Heart Month comes to a close, we thought we’d look into how our beloved spuds are good for your heart.

1. Potatoes contain no cholesterol or saturated fat

A positive for your waistline as well as your ticker! Obviously what you eat with your spuds is up to you but no cholesterol or saturated fat is a great starting point.

2. Potatoes are a great source of fibre
   Did you know, a potato baked in its skin contains more fibre than two slices of wholemeal bread? As well promoting good digestion, fibre also helps lower cholesterol which, in turn, is good for your heart.

3. Potatoes contain Vitamin C

   As well as promoting the growth and maintenance of bones, skin, teeth and red blood cells, Vitamin C is believed to support proper dilation of blood vessels leading to lower blood pressure.

4. Potatoes are a natural source of potassium and contain no sodium (salt).

   We all know that too much salt in our diets can be bad for us. Salt increases fluid retention in our bodies, which can cause high blood pressure. Not only do potatoes contain no sodium, they are a national source of potassium, which actively helps your kidneys to control the amount of fluid stored by your body. This helps your body to maintain a healthy blood pressure.

5. Potatoes contain Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) and B6

   Both these B Vitamins can help keep your heart healthy. Vitamin B6 helps your body to form Haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells which can oxygen around the body. Vitamin B1, as well as helping your body release energy from carbohydrates, also promotes healthy heart function.

For more information on potato nutrition, see our blog 10 Reasons Why Potatoes Should Appear On Your Plate Today. And to find out more about British Heart Month, visit the British Heart Foundation website.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/diet/fiber-heart

http://patient.info/wellbeing/health/vitamin-c-is-healthy

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vitamins-minerals/Pages/Vitamin-B.aspx#B6

http://patient.info/wellbeing/health/superfoods-new-potatoes

http://farmfreshdirect.net/5-reasons-potatoes-are-good-for-your-heart/

https://www.organicnutrition.co.uk/articles/heart-healthy-diet-foods.htm

http://www.bloodpressureuk.org/microsites/salt/Home/Whypotassiumhelps

http://www.lovepotatoes.co.uk/health/health-and-nutrition/