Eat Me: Six reasons Irish potatoes are good for your health

Irish potato is one of the many varieties of potato, a starchy, tuberous crop from the perennial nightshade solanum tuberosum.

They are called Irish potatoes because they were the main type grown in Ireland in the early 1800s, and are associated with The Great Irish Famine, one of the worst agricultural, social, and cultural disasters of the time.

The small fibrous vegetable is stacked with vitamins and minerals, such as carotenoids and natural phenols, potassium, vitamin B6 and trace amounts of thiamin, riboflavin, folate, niacin, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, fibre and zinc.

Whether baked, steamed, or boiled, here are six reasons you should eat Irish potatoes.

Relieves stress

Irish potatoes are exceedingly rich in vitamin B6 needed for the renewal of cells and maintenance of a healthy nervous system and a balanced mood.

Vitamin B6 aids in the production of adrenaline, a hormone that helps us respond to stress, and GABA, a substance linked to relaxation.

Aids digestion

The high levels of dietary fibre – bulking agent – present in Irish potatoes support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements while giving a protective effect from colon cancer.

Lowers blood pressure

High blood pressure can be triggered by several factors including stress, tension, anxiety, and diabetes.

Other than aiding digestion, the fibre present in Irish potatoes helps in lowering cholesterol and improves the functioning of insulin in the body, which helps lower blood pressure.

It is also a rich source of potassium which is needed to neutralise the adverse effects of sodium which could lead to an increase in blood pressure.

Boosts brain functioning

The B6 vitamins in Irish potatoes are critical to maintaining neurological health. Vitamin B6 helps create useful brain chemicals, including serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

In addition, it contains other elements like phosphorus and zinc which are good for the brain.

Good for the heart

Irish potatoes also contain minerals, roughages, and a substance called carotenoids, which promote good heart health.

Prevents cancer

Irish potatoes are also rich sources of flavonoid antioxidants and vitamin A, like zeaxanthin and carotenes, as well as a compound called quercetin that protects you from cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells.