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Your Guide to Potato Nutrition

Potato Nutrients

  • Saturated Fat 0 grams 0% DV
  • Trans Fat 0 grams 0% DV
  • Cholesterol 0 milligrams 0% DV
  • Sodium 0 milligrams 0% DV
  • Total Carbohydrate 26 grams 9% DV
  • Dietary Fiber 2 grams 7% DV
  • Total Sugars 1 gram
  • Protein 3 grams
  • Vitamin D 0mcg 0% DV
  • Calcium 20mg 2% DV
  • Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
  • Potassium 620mg 15% DV
  • Vitamin C 27mg 30% DV
  • Vitamin B6 0.2MG 10% DV

Potato Nutrition

We need to eat carbohydrates every day because they are important for optimal physical and mental performance. But, not all carbs are created equal. While “good carb” isn’t defined in the dictionary, this carb is hard at work helping our brains and bodies perform their best, curbing cravings and fueling activity, whether we’re working out or just getting through the day. With potatoes you get the energy, potassium, and vitamin C you need to fuel you.

Potatoes come in multiple varieties to keep your meals interesting. Russets, reds, yellows, whites, purples, petites, and fingerlings. Potatoes also come in multiple forms to fit your cooking methods: fresh, dehydrated, frozen, and canned. Their versatility means they can easily fit into meals across various personal, cultural, and dietary preferences.

Potatoes are more energy-packed than any other popular vegetable. Potatoes are also fat-free, gluten-free, plant-based, affordable, and a quality carbohydrate. They are cholesterol-free and sodium-free, with only 110 calories per 5.3oz serving. Based on the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs), potatoes can help Americans of all ages follow a healthy eating pattern. By choosing potatoes, Americans can take simple steps toward eating healthier across every stage of life.

Nutrition Facts 1 potato (148g/5.3oz) Amount per serving Calories 110 % Daily Value
Total Fat 0g
0%
Saturated Fat 0g
0%
Trans Fat 0g
0%
Cholesterol 0mg
0%
Sodium 0mg
0%
Total Carbohydrate 26g
9%
Dietary Fiber 2g
7%
Total Sugars 1g
Includes 0g Added Sugars 0%
Protein 3g
Vitamin D 0mcg
0%
Calcium 20mg
2%
Iron 1.1mg
6%
Potassium 620mg
15%
Vitamin C 27mg
30%
Vitamin B6 0.2mg
10%
*The % daily value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Potato Nutrition Highlights

+ An excellent source of vitamin C

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato has 27 mg of vitamin C per serving, which is 30% of the daily value. Potatoes are considered to be an excellent source of this antioxidant. Vitamin C aids in collagen production—a major component of muscle tissue— and supports iron absorption.

+ A good source of potassium (more than a banana!)

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato has 620 mg of potassium per serving, which is 15% of the daily value and more than a medium-sized banana (422 mg per serving). Potassium is an electrolyte essential for muscle functioning. Potassium is lost in sweat, so it needs to be replenished for optimal performance.

+ A good source of vitamin B6

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato has 0.2 mg of vitamin B6 per serving, which is 10% of the daily value and considered to be a good source. Vitamin B6 plays important roles in carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

+ Potatoes are fat-, sodium- and cholesterol-free

+ Potatoes are only 110 calories per serving

Get the Facts About Potatoes

Debunking Myths

Myth Starchy foods don't contain many nutrients Fact Potatoes are a nutrient-dense vegetable
Myth All of a potatoes' nutrients are in its skin Fact The majority of a potatoes valuable potassium and vitamin C is found in the flesh
Myth Potatoes are empty calories Fact Potatoes contain carbohydrates to fuel, 2 grams of fiber, and 3 grams of plant-based protein
Myth Only fresh produce is good for you Fact Fresh, frozen, and dehydrated potatoes are all optimal vegetable choices that contain nutrients
Myth Sweet potatoes are more nutritious than white potatoes Fact Both white potatoes and sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense vegetables

Potatoes. A Nutritional Powerhouse.

If you’re looking to power up your performance look no further than the potato. Did you know that potatoes provide the energy, potassium and Vitamin C you need to perform at your best? Potatoes are more energy-packed than any other popular vegetable and have even more potassium than a banana. Plus, there’s potato performance recipe options to fuel your body and brain throughout the day- whether you live an active lifestyle or are competing with elite athletes.

Carbohydrates

Potatoes have 26 grams of carbohydrate per serving, which is 9% of the daily value. Carbohydrates are a key source of energy for muscles to help you fuel, perform and recover(1). Carbohydrates are also important for optimal physical and mental performance(2).

Vitamin C

Potatoes have 27 mg of vitamin C per serving, which is 30% of the daily value. Potatoes are considered to be an excellent source of this antioxidant. Vitamin C aids in collagen production—a major component of muscle tissue—and supports iron absorption(4).

Potassium

Potatoes have 620 mg of potassium per serving, which is 15% of the daily value and more than a medium-sized banana (422 mg per serving)(3). Potassium is an electrolyte essential for muscle functioning. Potassium is lost in sweat, so it needs to be replenished for optimal performance(2).

Fiber

Potatoes have 2 grams of fiber per serving, which is 7% of the daily value. Dietary fiber has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving blood lipid levels, regulating blood glucose and increasing satiety. (5)

Iron

Potatoes have 1.1 mg of iron per serving, which is 6% of the daily value and more than half the amount in a 3-ounce beef patty (2.06 mg per serving)(3). Iron is a mineral involved in making proteins that carry oxygen to all parts of the body, including to the muscles.

Vitamin B6

Potatoes have 0.2 mg of vitamin B6 per serving, which is 10% of the daily value and considered to be a good source. Vitamin B6 plays important roles in carbohydrate and protein metabolism.

Protein

Potatoes have 3 grams of protein per serving. Protein is a key component of muscle and an important nutrient for athletic performance.

  1. Burke LM, Hawley JA, Wong SH, Jeukendrup AE. Carbohydrates for training and competition. J Sports Sci. 2011; 29(Suppl 1):S17–27.
  2. Thomas DT, Erdman KA, Burke LM. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Dietitians of Canada, and the American College of Sports Medicine: Nutrition and athletic performance. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2016; 116(3):501–528.
  3. USDA Food Composition Database. USDA Food Composition Databases v.3.9.5.3_2019-06-13. https://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/. Accessed September 5, 2019.
  4. Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017; 9(8):866.
  5. Dahl WJ, Steward ML. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Health implications of dietary fiber. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2015 November; 115(11):1861–70.

*One medium potato (148g/5.3 oz.) with skin on. © 2021 Potatoes USA. All rights reserved.

Vitamin C

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato contains 27 mg of Vitamin C, which is 30% of the daily value. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for humans. Vitamin C is found naturally only in fruits and vegetables.1 Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C and contribute significantly to the daily vitamin C requirements for Americans.2,3

 

 

Key Facts About Vitamin C

  • Vitamin C plays an important role in collagen formation and immune function.
  • As a potent antioxidant vitamin C stabilizes or eliminates free radicals in the body, thus helping to prevent cellular damage.
  • Fruits and vegetables are the best and only natural source of vitamin C.
  • A medium 5.3 oz potato with skin-on is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing 30% of the recommended daily value (DV). This is more vitamin C than one medium tomato (27% DV) or a sweet potato (20% DV).
  • For men ages 19 years and older, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin C is 90 mg per day. For women ages 19 years and older, the RDA is 75 mg per day.

Functions of Vitamin C

Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, a structural protein that gives strength and elasticity to a variety of body tissues (e.g., skin, gums, tendons, ligaments and bone) and plays a vital role in wound healing. Vitamin C also functions as an antioxidant in the body, stabilizing or eliminating free radicals, thus helping to prevent cellular damage. Finally, vitamin C assists with the absorption of iron and is concentrated in a number of immune cells thereby helping to support the body’s immune system.1

Vitamin C Recommendations

The current RDAs for vitamin C are based on its known physiological and antioxidant functions in white blood cells and, thus, have been set higher than the amounts needed to prevent the deficiency disease (scurvy).1 For men ages 19 years and older, the RDA is 90 mg per day and for women ages 19 years and older the RDA is 75 mg per day.

References:

  1. Institute of Medicine (US) Panel on Dietary Antioxidants and Related Compounds. Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, and Carotenoids. 2000. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US).
    2. Cotton PA, Subar AF, Friday JE, Cook A. Dietary sources of nutrients among US adults, 1994-1996. J Am Diet Assoc. 2004;104:921-930.
    3. O’Neil CE, Keast DR, Fulgoni VL, Nicklas TA. Food sources of energy and nutrients among adults in the US: NHANES 2003–2006. Nutrients. 2012 Dec 19;4(12):2097-120.
    4. USDA standard reference 28, based on Reference Amounts Customarily Consumed (RACC)
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Potassium

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato contains 620 mg of Potassium, which is 15% of the daily value. Potassium is a major mineral that plays a number of important roles in the body. Most notably, it is a key electrolyte that helps maintain the delicate balance of fluid inside and outside the cell.1 It is estimated that less than 3% of Americans are meeting the current adequate intake (AI) for potassium as specified by the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Key Facts About Potassium

  • Potassium is an important electrolyte that aids in muscle, cardiovascular and nervous system function.1
  • Potassium helps maintain normal blood pressure. Research suggests diets high in potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of hypertension and stroke.2
  • Potatoes with skin-on are a good source of potassium. This is more potassium in a medium 5.3oz skin on potato than in a medium-size banana.3
  • Potatoes provide one of the most affordable sources of potassium, significantly more than those foods commonly associated with being high in potassium, including bananas, oranges and mushrooms.2

Functions of Potassium and Relevant Research

Research suggests diets rich in potassium and low in sodium reduce the risk of hypertension and stroke.In a scientific statement promoting dietary approaches to prevent and treat hypertension, the American Heart Association (AHA) reported that evidence from animal experiments, observational studies and more than 30 human clinical trials show a significant association between high potassium intakes and reduced blood pressure.6

Given their high potassium content, potatoes may contribute to a heart healthy diet. In fact, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourages people to increase potassium by focusing on food choices with the most potassium such as white potatoes, beet greens, white beans, plain yogurt, and sweet potatoes.5

Potassium Recommendations

Current recommendations for potassium intake are expressed as an “adequate intake,” or AI. For males 19-50 years of age, the AI for potassium is 3400 mg per day whereas for females 19-50 years of age it is 2600 mg per day.7

References:

  1. Institute of Medicine. 2004. Dietary Reference Intakes: Water, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, and Sulfate. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Potassium-HealthProfessional/
    2. Drewnowski A, Rhem CD. Vegetable cost metrics show that potatoes and beans provide most nutrients per penny. PLoS One, 2013;15;8(5).
    3. USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Available at: https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/chapter-2/a-closer-look-at-current-intakes-and-recommended-shifts/
    4. Potassium: Food Sources Ranked by Amounts of Potassium and Energy per Standard Food Portions and per 100 Grams of Foods. Available at: https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/appendix-10/.
    5. Aaron KJ, Sanders PW. Role of dietary salt and potassium intake in cardiovascular health and disease: a review of the evidence. Mayo Clin Proc. 2013;88:987-995.
    6. Appel LJ, Brands MW, Daniels SR, Karanja N, Elmer PJ, Sacks FM. Dietary approaches to prevent and treat hypertension. A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Hypertension. 2006;47: 296–308.
    7. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Dietary Reference Intakes for Sodium and Potassium. Washington, DC; The National Academies Press; 2019.
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Carbohydrates

A medium 5.3 oz skin-on potato contains 26 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrate-rich foods like potatoes have been getting a bad rap lately. Many of today’s most popular fad diets recommend restricting all or specific carbohydrate-rich foods. This is unfortunate because carbohydrates have many important functions and eliminating them from the diet is neither necessary nor healthy.

 

 

Key Facts About Carbohydrates

  • One medium 5.3 oz potato with skin-on provides 26 grams of carbohydrates, or 9% of the daily value per serving.
  • The brain + red blood cells require carbohydrates.
  • Consume 130 grams of carbohydrates per day for central nervous system support.
  • Choose carbohydrates high in “nutrient density”
  • Fruits + vegetables are excellent carbohydrates

Functions of Carbohydrates

The primary function of carbohydrates is to provide energy to the cells of the body, particularly the brain. While most body tissues and organs prefer carbohydrate as their primary fuel source, some, like the brain, red and white blood cells, and certain parts of the kidney require it. 1 Carbohydrates are also an important fuel for the muscles during exercise, particularly intense and/or prolonged exercise, and as such are key to optimal athletic performance.

In fact, carbohydrates are so crucial to the body that if you don’t consume adequate amounts in your diet, your body will have to make them—a process known as “gluconeogenesis” (literally translated “to make new glucose”). The most common gluconeogenic substrates are amino acids derived from both dietary sources of protein and body proteins such as muscle and vital organs. Thus, while the body can survive without carbohydrates; it does so at the expense of the body’s protein pool and consequently does not function optimally.

Carbohydrate Classificaiton

Carbohydrates can be broadly classified as simple or complex, based on their chemical structure. Simple carbohydrates, as their name implies, have a simple chemical structure consisting of one or two sugar molecules. Examples include the monosaccharides (single sugars)—glucose, fructose, galactose—and the disaccharides (two sugars)—sucrose, lactose, and maltose. Most fruits and dairy products contain an abundance of simple sugars. Soft drinks, ice cream, sweets and pastries also contain significant amounts of simple sugars. 3

Complex carbohydrates, including starch, glycogen, fiber and resistant starch, have a more complex chemical structure, containing two or more sugar molecules linked together. 3 Glycogen is the body’s storage form of glucose, while starch is a plant’s storage form of glucose. Foods rich in starch include grains, cereals and most vegetables, particularly beans, peas, corn and potatoes. 3

Carbohydrate Recommendations

The current RDA for carbohydrates is 130 grams per day based on the amount needed to optimally support the central nervous system (i.e., the brain). 1 If you engage in physical activity, you need more carbohydrate. How much more depends on the intensity and duration of your exercise. 4 The Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine (the government body that sets the RDA) has recommended an acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR) for carbohydrates of 45-65% of total daily energy intake. 1

Some people hold the misconception that they need to cut out carbohydrates to manage body weight. But scientific consensus asserts that excess calories are to blame for weight gain, not diet composition. 5 Instead of restricting carbohydrates from your diet, practice common sense when selecting carbohydrate-rich foods—choose nutrient dense whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

References

  1. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy,Carbohydrate, Fiber, fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein and Amino Acids. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press. 2002; pp 265.
  2. Burke LM, Hawley JA, Wong SH, Jeukendrup AE. Carbohydrates for training and competition. J Sports Sci. 2011; 29(Suppl 1): S17-27
  3. Food and Nutrition Board, Institute of Medicine of the National Academies. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein and Amino Acids. Washington, DC. The National Academies Press. 2002; pp 275-276.
  4. Raatz SK, et al. Resistant starch analysis of commonly consumed potatoes: Content varies by cooking method and service temperature but not by variety. Food Chem. 2016 Oct 1;208:297-300.
  5. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2015 – 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. 8th Edition. December 2015. Available at http://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/.
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Protein

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato has 3 grams of protein. Protein is an important component of almost every cell and tissue in the body. Protein is made up of amino acids. There are 20 amino acids with biological significance; however, only nine are essential, meaning that our bodies cannot synthesize them and they must be obtained through food.

Key Facts About Protein

  • A medium-size 5.3 oz potato with skin-on provides 3 grams of plant-based protein.
  • The 3 grams of protein in one skin-on 5.3 oz potato exceeds that of all other commonly consumed vegetables, except dried beans.1
  • The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend eating a variety of plant-based foods to improve overall health.3

Functions of Protein

Proteins play many important roles in the body including:

  • Providing structure: Protein is a key component of muscle, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues like collagen. In addition, our skin, hair and nails contain significant amounts of protein.
  • Regulating metabolic processes: Enzymes which catalyze chemical reactions, hormones which regulate metabolic processes and cytokines that bind to the surface of cells and influence their functions are all proteins.
  • Transporting substances: Transport proteins carry important substances in the body. For example, hemoglobin and myoglobin carry oxygen, albumin carries several vitamins and minerals as well as fatty acids, and transferrin and ferritin carry iron.
  • Balancing fluid and electrolytes: Proteins, especially those found in the blood, help regulate fluid balance. Amino acids can be either positively or negatively charged, thus allowing them to help the body achieve acid-base balance and optimal pH.
  • Providing energy: Protein provides 4 calories per gram (similar to carbohydrate); however, under normal circumstances protein contributes little to energy production. Under stressful conditions (e.g., severe illness, starvation, diabetic ketoacidosis) protein becomes a more significant source of energy; but, to the detriment of health.

Protein Recommendations

The current recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein is .8 grams per kilogram of body weight and the acceptable macronutrient distribution range (AMDR) is 10%-35% of total daily energy intake from protein. One 5.3-ounce skin-on potato is a source of 3 grams of plant-based protein. Current dietary guidance, including the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, recommends substituting plant-based proteins for some animal-based proteins to improve overall health and support the environment.

References:

  1. Woolfe JA. The Potato in the Human Diet. 1987. Cambridge University Press.
    2. McGill CR, Kurilich AC, Davignon J. The role of potatoes and potato components in cardiometabolic health: A review. Ann Med. 2013;45(7):467-73.
    3. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2015 – 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. 8th Edition. December 2015. Available at https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015/guidelines/.
    4. Gropper S,S Smith JL, Carr TP. Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. 7th ed. 2018. Boston, MA. Cegage Learning.
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Fiber

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato has 2g of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is a type of complex carbohydrate found in vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Most Americans get only about half of the recommended amount of dietary fiber and, thus, could benefit from consuming more fiber-rich foods.

Key Facts About Fiber

  • A medium 5.3 oz potato with skin-on provides 2 grams of fiber, or 7% of the daily value per serving.
  • Dietary fiber has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving blood lipid levels, regulating blood glucose, and increasing satiety, which may help with weight loss.1
  • A common misconception is that all of the fiber in a potato is found in the skin. While the skin does contain approximately half of the total dietary fiber, the majority (> 50 percent) is within the potato itself.3
  • In the United States, recommendations for fiber intake are often made relative to calorie intake. The current recommend intake for fiber is 14g/1,000 kcal; thus, an average adult woman should consume 25 grams of fiber per day and the average male should consume 38 grams of fiber per day.2

Functions of Fiber

Dietary fiber has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including improving blood lipid levels, regulating blood glucose, and increasing satiety, (makes you feel full longer), which may help with weight loss.1

Fiber Recommendations

The current recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for fiber is 25 g per day for women 19-50 years of age (28 g per day if pregnant or lactating) and 38 g per day for men 19-50 years of age.5

References:

  1. Dahl WJ, Steward ML. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Health Implications of Dietary Fiber. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2015;115:1861-70.
    2. Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee 2015 Scientific Report. https://health.gov/dietaryguidelines/2015-scientific-report/Accessed December 27, 2018.
    3. Woolfe JA. The Potato in the Human Diet. New York: Cambridge University Press. 1987.
    4. Drewnowski A, Rehm CD. Vegetable cost metrics show that potatoes and beans provide most nutrients per penny. PLoS One. 2013;15;8(5).
    5. Institute of Medicine. 2005. Dietary Reference Intakes for Energy, Carbohydrate, Fiber, Fat, Fatty Acids, Cholesterol, Protein, and Amino Acids. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/10490.
    6. Storey ML, Anderson PA. Contributions of white vegetables to nutrient intake: NHANES 2009-2010. Adv Nutr. 2013: 4: 335S–344S.
    7. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/InteractiveNutritionFactsLabel/factsheets/Dietary_Fiber.pdf
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Vitamin B6

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato is good source of Vitamin B6 providing 10% of the recommended daily value. Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays important roles in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. It helps the body make nonessential amino acids needed to make various body proteins.

Iron

A medium 5.3 oz skin on potato provides 6% of the recommended daily value of iron, Iron is a mineral involved in making proteins that carry oxygen to all parts of the body, including to the muscles.

Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes are More Similar Than You Think...

1 Medium-Sized Skin-On White Potato (148g)

110 Calories

1 Gram of Sugar

3 Grams of Protein

0% Daily Value of Vitamin A

45% Daily Value of Vitamin C

26 Grams of Carbohydrates

620mg of Potassium

2 Grams of Fiber

VS.

1 Medium-Sized Skin-On Sweet Potato (130g)

100 Calories

7 Gram of Sugar

2 Grams of Protein

120% Daily Value of Vitamin A

30% Daily Value of Vitamin C

23 Grams of Carbohydrates

440mg of Potassium

4 Grams of Fiber

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Potato Nutrition FAQ's

Are potatoes good for you?

Yes, potatoes are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free, and sodium-free. In addition, potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, and a good source of potassium. Foods that are good sources of potassium and sodium-free, such as potatoes, may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.

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Are all types of potatoes equally nutritious?

 All varieties of potatoes are nutritious, and while nutrients may vary slightly depending on the variety, the differences are minimal.

Are there differences in nutrient content between fresh, frozen, and instant (dehydrated) potatoes?

Processed potatoes deliver the same nutrients as fresh potatoes (such as potassium, vitamin C, and fiber), but the amounts will vary depending on the form. Click here to find out more about the nutrient content in potato forms.

 

Are potatoes fattening?

Potatoes are naturally fat-free.

Are potatoes high in carbs?

Potatoes are a carbohydrate-rich vegetable. A medium, 5.3-ounce potato with the skin-on contains 26 grams of carbohydrate. Learn more about potatoes and carbohydrates.

If I am trying to lose weight, do I need to avoid potatoes?

Research demonstrates that people can eat potatoes and still lose weight. There is no evidence that potatoes when prepared in a healthful manner, impede weight loss.

Click here to learn more about potatoes and weight loss.

 

How do white potatoes and sweet potatoes compare when it comes to their nutrition?

Both sweet and white potatoes provide an excellent source of vitamin C, are good sources of potassium and B6, and provide similar amounts of protein (2g and 3g respectively).  Click here to see the nutrition comparison of White Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes.

 

Are fries healthy?

Just like other forms of white potatoes, fries deliver essential nutrients that many Americans don’t get enough of each day, particularly, potassium and vitamin C.

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Nutrition

Do potatoes have a high glycemic index (GI)?

The GI of potatoes is highly variable and depends on various factors, including the potato type, origin, processing, and preparation.

 

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Should people with diabetes avoid foods like potatoes?

According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), starchy vegetables such as potatoes can be included in the diet of a person with diabetes. The total amount of carbohydrate consumed at any given meal or snack is what is most important.

Can you eat potatoes if you’re trying to lose weight?

You can include potatoes as part of a weight loss program. It’s calories that count, not eliminating certain foods.  Among a study of participants, those who ate potatoes as part of a calorie reduced eating plan still lost weight.

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Are all the nutrients in the skin of the potato?

No. The notion that all the nutrients are in the skin is a myth. While the skin does contain approximately half of the total dietary fiber, most (> 50%) of the nutrients are found within the potato itself. For more information, please click here.

Potato Research

In 2004, Potatoes USA (formerly the U.S. Potato Board) began a formal Nutrition Research Program with the goal of creating a body of scientific evidence highlighting the nutritional benefits of potatoes and dispelling the myths and misconceptions surrounding potatoes. Today, we continue to provide external funding for research under the Alliance for Potato Research and Education.* Potatoes USA positions itself at the forefront of potato nutrition research, monitoring research and trends in the U.S. and overseas that could impact potato consumption in America.  You can find a collection of research abstracts that highlight the nutritional value of potatoes as a part of a healthy diet here.

Nutrient-Dense Snacking

Smart Snacking: Potato Chips.

Compared to the top ten snacks potato chips stack up!

Potato chips are minimally processed and typically made with three ingredients found in most homes – potatoes, vegetable oil and salt.

Potato Chips Compared

Gluten-Free Goodness

Potatoes are naturally gluten-free and packed with nutritional benefits needed for a healthy lifestyle.

Potatoes are one of the world’s most versatile vegetables. Foundational in a wide range of international and all-American cuisine, potatoes are the perfect blank canvas for various flavors. This is welcome news when your good health depends on eating a gluten-free diet.

An ideal substitution for some of your favorite bread, grain, and pasta-based dishes, potatoes add a boost of nutritional benefits.

Potatoes in Your Home

Potatoes are great every day of the week.

Check out these favorite, simple weeknight recipes.

View Recipes