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We talked to Bonnie Johnson from Potatoes USA, and Professor Mark Pavek from Washington State University about that bad reputation, and also the fact that there are thousands of varieties of potatoes in the world, but most of us can only name a few.
Lead Stories: Fact Check: Cut Potato In Sock Does NOT Combat Cold And Flu
Consuming a potato provides “an excellent source of vitamin C,” but no ready cure for the flu or a cold, agreed registered dietician Bonnie Johnson, director of nutrition at Potatoes USA, a marketing firm for potatoes: “Sadly, there’s no scientific evidence that putting a potato in your sock will do anything beneficial for people’s health. However, if they want to cook that potato and eat it, they’ll be consuming an excellent source of vitamin C. A medium (5.3 ounce) potato contains nearly one-third of the Vitamin C we need every day, which is 10% more than a medium tomato. As you know, Vitamin C helps support the body’s immune system. So while a raw potato in your sock may not keep a cold away, eating a cooked potato can boost your Vitamin C intake, which supports the body’s immune system!”
The Manual: What to eat before a run or race to optimize performance: A complete guide
Focus on eating nutritious complex carbohydrates like whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, buckwheat, or whole wheat pasta, if you are not sensitive to gluten) and starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes or regular potatoes.