Potato, Quality Available : A Grade

Botanical name: Solanum tuberosum

Potato is a starchy, tuberous crop from the perennial Solanum tuberosum of the Solanaceae family. Potatoes are a staple for many countries across the world, and it's a good source of protein, carbohydrates, vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, thiamine, riboflavin, folate, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and iron. Potatoes are very rich source of starch and fiber and have zero cholesterol.

Benefits and uses:

Potato is an integral part of much of the world's cuisine.

It is a rich source of energy. One medium-sized potato has 110 calories and is fat- and cholesterol-free.

It is easy to digest and highly recommended for people with poor digestion. Taters contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which help maintain gut health.

Potatoes being a good source of simple carbohydrates help raise the blood sugar levels high enough to promote brain function.

Apart from sugars, these tubers contain Vitamin B6 and folic acid, which play an important role in generation of neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin.

Potato is a rich source of phytonutrients and antioxidants including caretoniods, flavoniods, and caffeic acid. These compounds are well known for protecting against free radical damage and cell mutations.

Patatin, a plant protein is abundantly found in these tubers. This protein has been identified as a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound.

Taters are a rich concoction of skin healthy nutrients such as Vitamin C, folic acid, iron, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, and magnesium to name a few. In fact raw potato juice is used as an anti-pimple lotion in several Latin American countries.

Raw potatoes can also be mashed and applied to relieve external burns, inflammation, and so forth.

Nutritionists at the National Institutes of Health report that potatoes are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins and minerals that protect against cancer and promote heart-health.

Potatoes (with the skin) are a good source of potassium. Research shows that potassium may help lower blood pressure, contributing to a heart-healthy diet.