I’ve been more conscious on what I eat ever since I made working out a part of my lifestyle. I don’t really follow a strict diet but I do meal prep mostly on weekdays because I want to make it a habit to eat better. I’m no pro at preparing meals nor am I a super strict healthy eater but I do stick to dishes that are easy to make with ingredients that are readily available in my pantry.
While I don’t count calories and measure my micros and macros, it does help that I took a food intolerance test because it became my guide on what food works for me. Working out and eating healthy should go hand in hand. You can’t do one and expect to be fit and healthy. One thing I learned is that post workout meals play a huge part in recovery. It’s important to consume calories in the form of high-quality, high- carbohydrate whole foods.
Aaaah carbs. For many carbs is all bad but truth is not all carbs are the same, hence they’re not all bad. And yes if you’re regularly working out you need carbs to fuel you. So as I was doing research on no-nonsense ingredients and easy recipes, I stumbled upon a website that greatly talks about US potatoes.
US POTATO IS A SUPERFOOD!
This got me thinking. I love potato but never considered it as a pre nor post workout food. Now that I know their many benefits, I’ve incorporated more US potatoes in my diet.
Different kinds of potatoes to choose from! Here in the Philippines there are three different kinds of US potatoes available in leading supermarkets nationwide: fresh, frozen, and dehydrated. A study showed that potatoes are nutrient-dense carbs containing as much, if not more, of several essential vitamins and minerals than spaghetti, brown rice or whole wheat bread (compared on a per-serving basis). Plus, it is also an excellent source of carbohydrate, potassium and energy.
EXCELLENT SOURCE OF CARBS, POTASSIUM & EVERGY
Carbohydrates are the primary fuel of the brain and a key source of energy for muscles. Because our body’s own storage of carbohydrate is limited it needs to be replenished especially if one does intensive or prolonged exercise.
Potassium is an important electrolyte that aids in muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function. A medium skin-on potato contains 620 milligrams of potassium–that’s more potassium than a banana.
Energy supports optimal body functions and it’s critical to take in the appropriate number of calories to match the demands of your day. Potatoes are more energy-packed than any other popular vegetable, with a medium skin-on potato (5.2 ounce) containing 110 calories.
US POTATO NUTRITION FACTS
ANTIOXIDANTS
– Includes vitamin C, carotenoids, and anthocyanins. Depending on the type and variety of potato.
VITAMIN B6
– Good source of Vitamin B6, a nutrient that plays an important role in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. It helps turn the energy from food in to energy your body can use.
VITAMIN C
– Vitamin C plays a key role in the synthesis of collagen and may help support the body’s immune system. Potatoes have more vitamin C than one medium tomato or sweet potato.
FIBER
– One wholesome, satisfying potato with skin contributes to 2 grams of fiber to your diet. Dietary fiber has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving blood lipid levels, regulating blood glucose, and increasing satiety (makes you feel full longer), which may help with weight loss.
GLUTEN-FREE
– Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, an ideal substitute for some of your favorite bread, grain, and pasta-based dishes.
I never realized how amazing US potatoes are! Not only are they delicious snacks, they’re also good as a pre or post-workout food! The thing about potatoes being misunderstood as unhealthy is the way it is prepared and the ingredients mixed along with it. Which is why it pays to know how to prepare them.
I’ve been a fan of fingerling potatoes because they’re cute and they’re bite- sized–which makes them easy to prepare and eat. One of the ways I cook them is by baking them. I even shared my recipe HERE.
I always make sure I have potatoes in our home. After all, it’s a very versatile ingredient that I can easily add into a dish (Tortang Giniling, Chicken Afritada, Stewed Ground Pork to name a few). And some days I prepare fries for a snack. I know, I know they’re not the healthiest potato snack, which is why I’ve done research and will try to create these recipes.
I was going for Potato Fritata but ended up just sautéing US potatoes with bell pepper and eggs. It was a delicious post-workout dish I truly enjoyed. I go for US potatoes because I learned that they are a product of generations of sustainable farming knowledge–which makes them dedicated to growing the best potatoes possible not just for their families but also for us potato lovers. Currently US potatoes offer frozen, dehydrated and fresh potatoes here in the Philippines. I haven’t tried dehydrated potatoes yet but I always make sure I have some frozen potatoes ( they’re convenient and quick) and fresh ones in my home.
If you’re focusing on trying to be fit and healthy consider fueling your body with the right food. Know what ‘s best for your body and do your research. So glad that US potatoes, being one of my favorite veggies are packed with nutrients! Whether you live an active lifestyle or just want healthy food, adding this crop to your diet will do well with your brain & body’s performance.
US potatoes are available at all leading department stores nationwide. For more information like them on Facebook www.facebook.com/PotatoesUSAPhilippines
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