3 common mistakes with potatoes to avoid and easy solutions

Potatoes are known as the King of Vegetables. They are one of the most versatile and nutritious root vegetables. Rich in complex carbohydrates, they provide steady energy, making them an excellent addition to meals. Potatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins, all of which support immunity, heart health, and proper nerve function. While we often add them in daily meals, did you know there are very common mistakes too that we commit with potatoes which are not good for health. Dimple Jangda, a nutrition and wellness expert recently shared a reel on Instagram and explained the three common mistakes with potatoes that are making people sick and how one should avoid them.

As per Dimple's post, potatoes release a chemical called acrylamide due to the maillard reaction between the sugars and the amino acids. While this acrylamide is released from all vegetables when they're deep fried but potatoes is shown by research that it releases a maximum amount of acrylamide which by the way is a neurotoxin. It damages your nerves, weakens your muscles and increases the risk of cancer in animals, states Dimple. She further adds, these are the studies that have been shown and there is a similar effect on the human body as well.
What to do: As per Dimple, the best way to consume potatoes is by either sauteing it with other vegetables, boiling it, mashing it but making sure that you cook it fresh.

In her video, she also explains that people often commit a common mistake of batch cooking potatoes and storing it in the refrigerator for a few days. She explains, just like rice and pasta, potatoes are notorious for harboring a bacteria called bacillus cereus which starts releasing spores, aflatoxins, mycotoxins when stored in the refrigerator for too long. And because of the simple starch found in potatoes, it starts converting into sugar very quickly. Never batch cook potatoes, she warns.
What to do: Remember to always cook it fresh and consume it the same day to prevent gut health issues.

Last common mistake people commit is refrigerating raw potatoes. She states, potatoes do not belong in the refrigerator. The simple starches found in it start converting into sugar. It's called the sweetening process because of the cold environment and also it starts collecting mold because of the presence of moisture, lack of airflow quality.
What to do: Potatoes must always be stored in a dry, dark place outside the refrigerator in a corner of your kitchen where there's not much moisture or heat.

All Images Courtesy: istock
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is meant for general knowledge only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always talk to your doctor before starting any new routine.