Firstly, potatoes have a lot of Vitamin C that you need everyday. It contains more potassium than a banana, a couple of fibres and even some protein and iron, all for just 77 calories per 100 gms of potato.
Red/ purple potatoes hues contain natural plant compounds called anthocyanin. Anthocyanin work as antioxidants in the body, guarding cells from the kind of damage that lead to diseases.
Some studies shows that anthocyanin may reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases and congenitive heart disease.
Potatoes in general have special powers. When they are cooked and cooled, they become rich in resistant starch, a kind of carbohydrate that can help you feel fuller and boost the amount of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
WHY HAVE POTATOES GOTTEN SUCH A BAD REPUTATION?
One reason is that while they are the most commonly eaten vegetable, they are often consumed in the form of french fries, alongside less nutrient dense foods.
Once potatoes are deep fried, showered in salt and served with fast foods, burgers and soda, nutrient density diminishes.
It is important that you are mindful of how potatoes are prepared to enjoy their nutritious value. Eat potatoes roasted/ baked/ broiled/ boiled more often. That doesn't mean you have to give up on fries and chips forever.