In this brief guide, we’ll explore the search query: “Are potatoes healthier than pasta?” Also, we’ll explore what the nutritional content of potatoes is, what the health benefits of eating potatoes are, what the nutritional content of pasta is, and what the health benefits of eating pasta are.
Are potatoes healthier than pasta?
There is no definitive answer to whether potatoes are healthier than pasta. This is because how they are prepared, namely, what ingredients each dish is made with, and what cooking method is employed also play a part in determining whether one option is healthy compared to another.
The nutritional content of potatoes and pasta differs, as do the potential health benefits of consuming each.
Some argue that potatoes are more nutrient-rich, while others maintain that pasta is a more healthful option.
Ultimately, the best way to determine whether potatoes or pasta are healthier for you is to consider your own dietary needs and preferences.
What is the nutritional content of potatoes?
The nutritional content of potatoes is as follows: carbohydrates, protein, dietary fiber, vitamin C, B6, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
On average, a 173-gram portion of potato can provide:
- 161 calories – 2 of which are sourced from fat
- 4.3 grams of protein
- 0.2 grams of fat – of which 0.1 grams are saturated fat, and 0.1 grams are polyunsaturated fat
- 37 grams of carbohydrates (12% of the RDI) – of which 3.8 grams are dietary fiber (15% of the RDI), and 2 grams are sugar
- 17 milligrams of sodium (1% of the RDI)
- 926 milligrams of potassium (26% of the RDI)
Additionally, the same portion can provide 0.3% of the RDI of vitamin A, 28% of the RDI of vitamin C, 2% of the RDI of calcium, and 10% of the RDI of iron.
*Recommended daily intake values are based on a diet of 2000 calories per day. An individual’s exact needs may vary. Therefore, we recommend our readers consult their exact needs with a licensed nutritionist.
What are the health benefits of eating potatoes?
The health benefits of eating potatoes include:
- Reducing the risk of heart disease: Potatoes are a good source of potassium, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Promoting weight loss: Potatoes are high in fiber, which can help you feel full after eating them and promote weight loss.
- Maintaining healthy skin: Potatoes are a good source of Vitamin C, which is essential for healthy skin.
A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that potatoes offer several health benefits when consumed as part of a healthy diet. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C, B6, and potassium, and a very good source of dietary fiber, niacin, and thiamin.
However, these benefits do not extend to potatoes that are cooked in methods such as deep-frying, salting or other types of processing that add to their overall calories.
What is the nutritional content of pasta?
Pasta is made of flour, water, and egg, and it is a good source of thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B6. It also has a moderate amount of protein and fiber
On average, a 124-gram portion of pasta can provide:
- 196 calories – of which 10 are sourced from fat
- 7.2 grams of protein
- 1.2 grams of fat (2% of the RDI) of which 0.2 grams are saturated fat (1% of the RDI), 0.4 grams are polyunsaturated fat, and 0.2 grams are monounsaturated fat
- 38 grams of carbohydrates (13% of the RDI) – of which 2.2 grams are dietary fiber, and 0.7 grams are sugar.
- 1.2 milligrams of sodium
- 55 milligrams of potassium (2% of the RDI)
Additionally, the same portion may provide 0.7% of the RDI of calcium and 8.8% of the RDI of iron.
*Recommended daily intake values are calculated based on a diet of 2000 calories per day. An individual’s exact needs may vary. Therefore, we recommend that our readers consult their exact nutritional needs with a licensed nutritionist.
What are the health benefits of eating pasta?
The health benefits of eating pasta include reducing the risk of heart disease, maintaining a healthy weight, providing energy, and reducing the risk of some types of cancer.
Pasta is a grain-based food that is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. It is a good source of thiamin, niacin, and iron, and a very good source of riboflavin and magnesium. Pasta also contains small amounts of other nutrients.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we’ve explored the search query: “Are potatoes healthier than pasta?” Also, we’ve explored what the nutritional content of potatoes is, what the health benefits of eating potatoes are, what the nutritional content of pasta is, and what the health benefits of eating pasta are.