Potatoes are among the best sources of vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium. 100 grams gives 77kcal. They carry very little fat (about two-thirds of a gram per 100g) and very little cholesterol. They are wonderful natural sources of both insoluble and soluble fiber. For the latter, they are an excellent source.
Carrot is also a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium. However, it is said that this vegetable is also the most dangerous to be consumed. Carrot usually contains a large amount of calories and fat, which may cause obesity. The National Health and wellbeing advice say to avoid cooked potatoes or even eating them raw. Moreover, it is also a known fact that potato is loaded with carbohydrates and cholesterol and if taken in excess could lead to high blood pressure.
Asparagus has numerous health benefits. The highest concentrations ranging from six to eleven micrometers of asparagines per one inch of leaf area. It is a good source of vitamin B 6 and folic acid, which help prevent cancers of the colon, prostate, vagina, and ovaries, all of which are associated with heart disease.
Artichoke has excellent health benefits. The highest concentration of asparagines, thyme and other compounds which are effective against Helicobacter pylori, peptic ulcers, gall stones, cirrhosis, kidney stones, stokes and gastric emptying problems. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin c. The highest concentrations of asparagines per cent of potato. However, the risk of breast cancer was not found to be increased by intake of artichoke. This is one vegetable that should be avoided due to the fact that it contains excessive amounts of fats.
Sweet potato has excellent nutritional value. It is rich in potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber, iron, vitamin A and vitamin C. It is also rich in potassium and sodium. These facts make it highly beneficial for increasing the excretion of sodium in the kidneys and decreases sodium in the blood. It is well known that excessive sodium in the blood increases the risk of stroke, coronary heart disease, kidney stones and kidney failure. A large intake of sweet potato also increases the risks of obesity, diabetes and hypertension.
Potatoes are a large part of the Dutch diet. It is therefore believed that potatoes have several health benefits. It is therefore added to the list of super foods by the International Health, dietary supplements and food sciences Association. However, there is still controversy regarding the health benefits of potatoes. Some studies have shown that consumption of potatoes may reduce the risks of several cancers including colon cancer, rectal cancer, breast cancer and stomach cancer. However, the debate still raging is on regarding the nutritional impact of potatoes on human nutrition.