Twelve years have passed since I conceived with my unico hijo, but to this day, the memory of my pregnancy days is still clear to me. It wasn’t really a difficult pregnancy. I didn’t have morning sickness or work restrictions, but I was always sleepy and frequently hungry. I craved for saucy or soupy dishes back then, with meat and lots of veggies. One particular vegetable that I loved having in my meals when I was pregnant were potatoes. I absolutely enjoyed putting potatoes in braised fish or beef and in my pork stew.
No need to worry, though, as I was a conscious eater even back then. For fear of having gestational diabetes, I practiced healthy eating during pregnancy. I avoided caffeinated drinks, excessive sweets and too much carbohydrates. I didn’t get rid of rice, bread or pasta, though, in my diet because I know that if taken in the right amount, these food choices would provide the nutrients I needed for me and my growing baby. Carbohydrates, like potatoes, if consumed in the right proportions, are actually good for pregnant women, and here’s why.
Health Benefits of Potatoes
Potatoes are the best source of potassium for pregnant women as these can help them avoid those horrible leg cramps in the middle of the night. In fact, potatoes have the highest potassium content among the top 20 most frequently consumed raw vegetables. A medium-sized US potato (about 5.2 oz.) has 620 mg of potassium, which is much higher than a banana. It also contains only 110 calories when prepared with the skin on.
Potatoes are also rich in Vitamin C that helps boost the immune system, vitamin B6 that keeps the nervous system healthy, plus iron and fiber that helps digestion and lowers bad cholesterol. Potatoes are also high in folate, a nutrient needed especially during early pregnancy to help reduce the risk of brain and spine problems in infants. Potatoes are also fat-free, sodium-free and cholesterol-free. So yes, contrary to what others believe, potatoes are actually good for pregnant women.
Potatoes for Pregnant Moms
Why do pregnant women crave for starchy food? The growing baby in the womb gets energy from their mothers in the form of glucose. This is what causes a drop in the pregnant women’s blood sugar levels, which in turn triggers their cravings for starchy food. Potatoes are a convenient and delicious way to satisfy those cravings and will make pregnant women feel fuller faster. What’s more, a serving of mashed potatoes can also reduce gastric acidity during pregnancy.
Potatoes, if eaten in the right amount and prepared the right way, will help meet the nutritional needs of both the pregnant moms and their babies. Try baked or steamed potatoes, instead of fried, for a healthier treat. You can also combine potatoes with meat and vegetables and make them part of your heartwarming soup and stew. You can also season boiled potatoes with spices, olive oil and vinaigrette for a yummy concoction.
Delicious Potato Recipes
Potatoes USA, an organization that has thankfully brought US frozen, US tablestock (fresh) and US dehydrated potatoes to our shores, offers a lot of options for potato meals.
Try whipping up this healthy and delicious Cilantro Chimichurri and Garlic Roasted Potatoes.
This delectable Spanish Potato Salad with Tuna Boquerones will surely have you craving for more. For more potato recipe options, click on www.potatogoodness.com/potato-recipes.
High quality US potatoes are available at major supermarkets and groceries nationwide. For more information on US potatoes, you can get in touch with the local Potatoes USA-Philippines office at +632.534.8534 and info@synergyasia.biz. You may also visit www.potatogoodness.com or like and follow Potatoes USA-Philippines on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PotatoesUSAPhilippines.
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