The Health Benefits and Uses of Potato Skins

One vegetable that’s available in almost every household across the world is the humble potato. This vegetable is adored all over the world for its versatility and taste. The number of dishes that can be prepared with a potato is endless! However, while preparing anything with potatoes, what is the first thing we do? We peel them and toss the peels into the bin. What good are they, after all... Right? But what if we told you that the skin is the most nutritious part of a potato? Not only that. Potato peels can also be beneficial for your skin and hair in a variety of ways! 

Today, we will show you some surprising and little-known benefits of potato skins. Considering that potato peels are discarded as waste and not effectively utilized, you are likely to be shocked by the information below.

1. They're quite nutritious

 

For starters, the potato peel has a very impressive nutritional profile. By adding it to your diet, you will get a variety of vitamins and minerals. According to the USDA, 100 g of raw potato peels contains 83.3 g of water and gives 243 kJ of energy. Apart from that, the skins also include:

Protein: 2.57 g 

Dietary fiber: 2.5 g 

Calcium: 30 mg 

Iron: 3.24 mg 

Magnesium: 23 mg 

Phosphorus: 38 mg 

Potassium: 413 mg 

Sodium: 10 mg 

Zinc: 0.35 mg 

Copper: 0.42 mg 

Manganese: 0.6 mg 

Selenium: 0.3 mcg 

Vitamin C: 11.4 mg 

Vitamin B3: 1.03 mg 

Folate: 17 mcg.

2. Good for heart health

Since potato peels are rich in potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining and regulating blood pressure, they are considered good for heart health. They are also loaded with magnesium and calcium, which, according to Harvard Medical School, also help control blood pressure.

Furthermore, studies indicate that these peels have powerful radical scavenging, or antioxidant, activity because of chlorogenic and gallic acids – two dominant compounds that help maintain the health of your heart by reducing damage caused by free radicals. Recent research has shown that free radical damage may cause many chronic health problems, such as cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases. Antioxidants can prevent that damage, as they eradicate free radicals by neutralizing them.

3. Can help heal wounds

Potato peels contain terpenes and flavonoid organic compounds, both of which have been proven to prevent bacterial and fungal infections. Moreover, studies show the skins of this amazing vegetable can also be used for healing wounds and preventing bacterial growth. They do so by encouraging skin growth and supplying tensile strength to the wounded skin.

In addition, potato peels can be used as an alternative for wound dressing because they moisturize the skin, not to mention that they are readily available, inexpensive, and easy to apply.

4. They act as a natural  hair colouring agent

 A little-known benefit of potato skins is that they can color grey hair. The peels contain several vital nutrients, such as iron, zinc, copper, calcium, potassium, niacin, and magnesium that help provide a natural look and color to your hair. So, if you're looking for a natural and eco-friendly way to dye your hair, just use potato peels.

5. Help lighten dark spots

Apart from antioxidant and antibacterial compounds, potato skins also contain phenolic compounds. Together, these compounds have a brightening effect on the skin. Meaning, they can help lighten dark spots on the skin or help reduce dark circles that appear under the eyes. 

All you need to do is collect some fresh potato skins and rub them over the dark spots for a few minutes. Alternatively, you can make a fine paste of the peels and rub them on the problem area every day. You should start seeing results in about three weeks!

6. Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy effects

Potato skins are a natural source of a flavonoid called quercetin. Flavonoids are a group of natural substances found in fruits, vegetables, plants, and trees that are believed to protect against disease. The flavonoid quercetin has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect that protects the body against disease and infection.

A 2016 study published in the journal Molecules showed that quercetin can be effective for treating bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, and peanut-induced anaphylactic reactions. The authors of the study also stated that quercetin is the main ingredient in several potential anti-allergy drugs.

7. Can reduce glucose levels  

A study that analyzed the anti-diabetic effects of potato peels found that the dietary fiber and polyphenols in potato peel powder can help lower glucose levels when added to the diet for at least four weeks. Furthermore, the vegetable’s skin also helps limit free radical damage to the liver and kidneys and enhances their functions in people with diabetes.

Ways to use potato skins

 Now that we have established that potato peels are good for your health, how should we add them to our diet? Well, there are numerous recipes out there for making dishes with potato skins. But, you must first make sure that you are eating them in a healthy way. Otherwise, you won’t get their nutritious benefits. 

If you are looking for interesting ways to add potato skins to your diet, here are a few unique suggestions you might like:

* Add them to your salads for a low-calorie healthy lunch. 

* Bake a potato without peeling off its skin and add salt and pepper, and very light simple toppings for a nutritious and delicious snack. For this, first put the potatoes in a 400 °F (204.4 °C) oven for an hour and let them bake until the flesh is very soft. Next, cut the potatoes down the middle and insert your favorite toppings. 

* Bake potato skins with sour cream, chives, and bacon for a yummy snack. 

* Rub the cleaned skins with olive oil and kosher salt and bake them until crispy.

How to choose potato peels

While potato skins are safe to eat, just make sure to wash them well before cooking to get rid of all the dirt. However, experts say that we shouldn’t eat a potato peel that’s turned green. Since potatoes grow underground, they start turning green when exposed to light. This green color appears because of chlorophyll pigmentation. When this happens, it leads to the formation of an alkaloid called solanine, which can be toxic to humans when consumed in large amounts. Therefore, it’s better to discard a potato that’s acquired a green tinge.

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https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

If Mango Is The 'King', Which Fruit Is Known As The 'Queen' Of Fruits?

Everyone knows mango is the ‘King of Fruits’, but very few know which fruit is called the ‘Queen of Fruits’. Here's all you need to know.

 As summer arrives, markets across India are filled with the aroma and vibrant colours of mangoes. Loved for their sweetness, rich flavour, and widespread popularity, mangoes have long been celebrated as the “King of Fruits.” But have you ever wondered which fruit holds the title of the “Queen of Fruits”?

 

The answer is mangosteen. Renowned for its unique sweet-and-tangy flavour, soft white flesh, and impressive nutritional profile, mangosteen is widely referred to as the “Queen of Fruits” around the world. 

While mangoes dominate conversations during the summer season, mangosteen remains a lesser-known treasure for many fruit lovers. The fruit has a deep purple outer rind and a soft, juicy white interior. Its distinctive appearance and exceptional taste have helped it earn a special place among premium fruits globally. 

According to experts, mangosteen offers a delightful blend of sweetness and mild tartness. People who have tasted the fruit often describe its flavour as a combination of several tropical fruits, making it a unique culinary experience. This characteristic sets mangosteen apart from many other fruits. 

Beyond its taste, mangosteen is also highly valued for its nutritional benefits. It is naturally low in calories and fat while being rich in essential vitamins and minerals. The fruit contains significant amounts of vitamins C and E, along with several B-complex vitamins. It is also a source of important minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and copper. 

 Mangosteen is rich in dietary fibre, which supports healthy digestion. In addition, it contains natural compounds known as xanthones, which are recognised for their antioxidant properties. The fruit has earned the title of the “Queen of Fruits.” For fruit enthusiasts around the world, it remains a prized delicacy that is both delicious and nutritious.

 

 

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https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs

Here are 10 reasons why you should include more asparagus in your diet this season:

This bright green veggie has been deemed a spring superfood with good reason. It is packed with goodness - vitamins A, C, E, K, B6 and folate, as well as essential minerals like iron, copper, calcium, protein and fiber. In addition, there are many ways this nutritious vegetable can be enjoyed.

1. They may help you lose weight 

Asparagus is low in fat and calories (one cup is a mere 32 calories). It is also packed with lots of soluble and insoluble fiber, making it a good choice if you are trying to lose weight, primarily because your body digests fiber slowly, helping you feel satiated in between meals. In addition, asparagus can also aid constipation and studies have shown that it may help lower cholesterol. 

 

Recipe tip: Grill a couple of asparagus spears, lightly drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Top with a perfectly poached egg. 

 

 2. They may prevent urinary tract infections 

 Asparagus contains the amino acid, asparagine, making it a natural diuretic. A diet rich in asparagus could therefore prevent urinary infections from developing as it helps flush excess fluid and salt from the body. 

 

Recipe tip: Sauté a bunch of fresh asparagus and 3 cloves of garlic with 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. 

 

3. They are packed with antioxidants  

Purple asparagus is packed with anthocyanins (an antioxidant that gives this type of asparagus its purple hue) which could help your body fight damaging free radicals. 

 

Recipe tip: Cook this veggie on low heat, but do not let it boil or sauté for too long. Doing so may negate some of its nutritional benefits, causing its vitamins to be lost into the water.

 

 

4. They are a great source of vitamin E 

This important antioxidant helps strengthen your immune system. Vitamin E also protects the cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. 

 

Recipe tip: To better absorb the benefits of vitamin E, pair this nutritious veg alongside some fat, by cooking it with olive oil. 

 

5. They are a great aphrodisiac  

Asparagus is a great source of the vitamins B6 and folate, both of which have been found to help boost feelings of arousal. In addition, vitamin E has also been shown to stimulate sex hormones, including estrogen in women and testosterone in men.

Recipe tip: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 crushed garlic and 2 tablespoons sesame seeds. Brush the mix over the asparagus and grill for about 4 minutes on each side. 

 

6. They can ease a hangover  

Research has shown that a side of asparagus may be a better remedy for curing a hangover than a greasy breakfast. A 2009 study published in the Journal of Food Science found that the minerals and amino acids in asparagus extract may help ease a hangover and protect liver cells from the toxins in alcohol. 

 

Recipe tip: Drizzle the asparagus with some olive oil and season with salt and pepper, placing them in a pre-heated oven until tender. Top the asparagus with soft and custardy scrambled eggs. 

 

7. They beat bloating 

Asparagus is an anti-bloating superfood. It promotes overall digestive health (due to its soluble and insoluble fiber benefits) and is packed with prebiotics (non-digestible carbohydrates that act as food for probiotics - providing a healthy balance of good bacteria in your digestive tract.) Asparagus can reduce gas, and as a natural diuretic, it can help flush excess liquid reducing a belly bulge. 

 

Recipe tip: Infuse some olive oil with orange zest and red pepper flakes and drizzle atop a handful of asparagus spears and green beans.

8. They are a great source of folic acid  

Folic acid is essential for women who are trying for a baby, because it can help protect against neural tube defects. According to a study published in 2009, PLoS Medicine found that folic acid can help reduce the effects of premature birth by 50% when taken for at least a year before conception. Just four asparagus spears contain 22% of your recommended daily allowance.

Recipe tip: Asparagus is best served alongside some fat. Combine a tablespoon of butter with some chopped fresh mint and drizzle over a handful of steamed asparagus. 

 

9. They are packed with vitamin K  

Asparagus is a good source of vitamin K - a crucial nutrient for coagulation (it helps the body stop bleeding after a cut) and it also contributes to bone health. While calcium is essential for healthy bones, vitamin K can actually help your body absorb calcium. 

 

Recipe tip: Combine some mayonnaise, olive oil, white wine vinegar and dijon mustard over a bunch of steamed asparagus. 

 

10. They boost your mood 

Folate - a B vitamin found in asparagus - has been shown to lift your spirits and help keep irritability at bay. Studies have shown that low levels of folate and B12 among people who suffer from depression. In addition, asparagus contains high levels of tryptophan - an amino acid that has also been linked to better mood. 

 

Recipe tip: Bacon is a good source of vitamin B12 and pairs exceptionally well with a handful of asparagus.

Bonus: Here's a delicious way to enjoy asparagus! 

 

Here's How: Simply roll out a rectangular sheet of puff pastry and make a border. With a fork, poke holes at the bottom, allowing the pastry to cook through. Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes then brush a honey dijon mix atop, followed by some balsamic vinegar. Top the pastry with a good amount of grated Swiss and Parmesan cheese (or as much as desired) then layer the asparagus over the cheese, brushing each spear with some olive oil. Season with a pinch of salt and some pepper and bake for a further 20 to 25 minutes. Drizzle some Hollandaise sauce over the pastry and serve!

https://gscrochetdesigns.blogspot.com. one can see my crochet creations  

https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com  for info on cancer and health related topics

https://GSiyers home remedies.blogspot.com   is the latest addition to my blogs.

Pot and pan cleaning guide

I  thought that if I add this post, it will be beneficial to all those ladies who have to scrub their pots and pans and those who prefer to  have them shining.

stainless steel-  hot water OR hydrogen peroxide + baking soda + scrubbing pad
Aluminum-  water+ cream of tartar optional white vinegar, scouring pad
glass- hot water + baking soda+ non-abrasive scouring pad + dish soap
copper- vinegar + salt + non-abrasive scouring  pad
cast iron  - pre-season = warm water  +  dish soap dry. cooking oil + bake
cast iron - cleaning- cooking oil or hot water + coarse salt + dish towel.
enamel -   baking soda +  warm water + soft bristle brush
anodized aluminum = dish washing detergent + hot water + non-abrasive sponge

to clean stainless steel sink- sprinkle baking soda all over, scrub with an old toothbrush or a sponge  OR
you can use lemon + salt to shine your stainless steel sink, cut a lemon in half, sprinkle salt over and scrub,  sprinkling more salt as you may need.

You may soak a thin muslin cloth in white vinegar and spread in on the sink, sprinkle baking soda liberally all over it, let it stand for 10-15 minutes, slowly rub around in circular motion, if need be once you remove the cloth, you can use a scrubber, then wash with water and wipe dry.

In the next post, it will be how to cook in a stainless steel pan/ pot without food sticking to it.

those interested in cancer & health related topics are free to see my blog-
http://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com/

for crochet designs, my blog, those who like a particular design are free to mail me
http://gscrochet designs.blogspot.com

For info. about knee replacement, be free to view my blog-
http://knee replacement-stick club.blogspot.com  

Pots And Pans Cleaning Guide

1. Stainless steel - Hot water or hydrogen peroxide + baking soda + scrubbing pad

2.Aluminum-  water + cream of tartar optional white vinegar + scouring pad

3.Glass-Hot water + baking soda+ non-abrasive scouring pad + dish soap

4.Copper- Vinegar + salt + non-abrasive scouring pad

5. Cast iron-   Pre-season   warm water+ dish soap .dry  + cooking oil + bake
                       Clean--cooking oil Or hot water + coarse salt  + dish towel       

6. Enamel--  Baking soda + warm water + soft bristle brush

7.  Non-stick Or Anodized aluminum-   dish washing detergent + hot water + non-abrasive sponge

This 2 ingredients stainless steel cleaner recipe will work well even on small kitchen appliances. You can even try it on your toaster. It will remove all those little scorch marks in next to no time.

All you need are equal parts Olive Oil and Vinegar. Mix them up and use in a spray bottle. It’s that simple!

For my other blogs, I'm giving the links below, feel free to view and comment too.

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com. for all cancer and health related topics
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement

How To Get The Best Results From Your Cookware

Now-a-days cookwares cost a lot of money. So, we've to be careful how best we can take good care of them. I'm sure that most will agree that we can't afford to keep buying new sets of pots and pans each year. So, here are some ways as to how best we can take good care of them and use the right type for our cooking !

1. Do Not Over-heat- aluminum, copper, steel ( not stainless) and iron react with food. This results in chemicals being released during cooking- not ideal over time. Non-reactive materials include stainless steel,  enamel and ceramics.

2. Control Temperature- Cooking is all about conducting heat and some materials are much better ( copper, aluminum) are much better than others ( stainless steel, cast iron). Good heat conductors cook more evenly and react faster to temperature changes.

3. Balance reactivity with conductivity- Combining materials can bring together the best properties of different materials. For e.g., stainless steel pots ( non-reactive) with copper bottom ( for improved conduction).

4. Beware non-stick can be toxic- Non-stick cookware can contain substances that when heated release toxic particles and gases.  These have been linked to many health problems.

5. DIY non-stick cookware- Cast iron and some stainless steel pans can be made non-stick through a simple process of seasoning. This involves coating the pan with oil and heating it to form a non-stick surface that will last for years !

6. Keep it clean naturally- Get stains off, even on baked ones, using natural cleaners like baking soda, vinegar, lemons, salt and boiling water. A combination of these will work every time.

7. Quality and quantity- Buy a smaller number of good quality pans, rather than a cheap set of 20, which won't get used or last.

8. Smart storage- save space, keep pots and pans in top condition longer.Search online for DIY  organizing ideas or invest in some simple racks and shelves.

9. Care and maintenance- Different cookware require different care and maintenance. Understand how to clean and maintain it for optimal results.

10. Use it or lose it-  The more you cook, the better you'll get to know how your cookware performs and if it's right for you. If it isn't, then donate / swap or give it away and replace with something better.

Simply mix up a paste of baking soda and water and apply with a Magic Eraser. If you’d like to make your own and save dollars.

Wash your Dutch Oven or Enamel Cook-pot as normal with a sponge and dish soap. You only want the burnt on bits of food and stubborn stains to clean.

Make sure you soak the Eraser in water first before you start scrubbing. Your solution should be equal proportions of water and baking soda. Apply with a ball of scrunched up paper towel. You won’t believe how well this works and there’s no hard scrubbing. 

For my other blogs, I'm giving the links below, feel free to view and comment too.

https://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com. for all cancer and health related topics
https://gseasyrecipes.blogspot.com. feel free to view for easy, simple and healthy recipes
https://kneereplacement-stickclub.blogspot.com. for info on knee replacement 

LEMON JUICE COMES HANDY TO CLEAN CHROME, BRASS AND COPPER SURFACES TOO !

Mix lemon juice with drinking soda and dip a clean hand towel into the mixture. Wipe down chrome, brass or copper surfaces thoroughly, then rinse well and wipe down with dry paper to make them look like new!

those interested in cancer and health related topics are free to see my blog-

http://cancersupportindia.blogspot.com/

 for crochet designs, my blog, those who like a particular design are free to mail me

http://My Crochet  Creations.blogspot.com

For info. about knee replacement, be free to view my blog-

http://knee replacement-stickclub.blogspot.com

WHY OATS ARE GOOD FOR HEALTH?

The oatmeal & oat bran are rich in dietary fibre, both soluble & Insoluble. These help in lowering  cholesterol levels. Oats help in slowing down the rise in blood glucose levels after a meal & helps in delaying the absorption into the cells.

The soluble fibre forms a gel like structure while passing through the digestive tract. This increases the viscosity of the contents in the stomach & small intestine, which in turn slows down digestion & prolongs the absorption of carbohydrates into the blood stream.

This helps both the diabetics & those who want to loose weight.

Oats also have a good balance of essential fatty acids & are a good source of essential vitamins such as folic acid, thiamin & minerals such as copper, iron, manganese, zinc, magnesium & selenium. Regular consumption of oats also helps in maintaining a healthy blood pressure.