Black Friday CountDown 1

13 December, 2006

The Skinny On: Baked Potato


Carbs are much maligned these days and potatoes are often the target. But who doesn't consider mashed potatoes or french fries comfort food? Though they might just be the reason for the potato's bad reputation since both turn the spud into a vehicle for fat.
If you take away the butter, sour cream and cheese of the heaped or baked potato, what you have left is an exceptionally healthful low calorie, high fiber food containing antioxidants that offer protection against cardiovascular disease and Cancer.
Not only is the potato high in vitamin C it is also a good source of Vitamin B6, as well as the minerals potassium and magnesium which both help prevent muscle cramps. Plus potatoes are high in dietary fiber. But you have to eat the skin!!! That is where the fiber is.
So, if you are like me and crave baked potatoes occasionally, I say eat them and let all those carb free folks be damned.
Here are few alternatives to overplayed toppings like sour cream and butter: salsa, pesto, soy souse and steamed broccoli, sauteed onions (in olive oil, of course!).
Yum, I know what I am having with dinner...lol!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

baked potatoes craaack.ya mean?!!!

Editor said...

My maid uses butter sparingly on the baked potatoes. She brushes them with a bit of virgin olive oil on the skin before baking!