Despite their bad health reputation, potatoes could actually help lower blood pressure without contributing to weight gain, according to a new study presented at the 242nd National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society taking place this week.
Researchers from the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania recruited 18 volunteers, most of whom were overweight and suffering from high blood pressure. Volunteers ate two daily servings of microwaved potatoes for a month while having their blood pressure and weight monitored.
The blood pressure of the volunteers decreased by 3.5 to 4.3 percent on average. Even patients who were already on medication to control their blood pressure saw their readings go down, suggesting the potatoes were able to pick up where the medication left off. The volunteers also showed no signs of weight gain.
According to the study authors, microwaving potatoes is the best way to maintain their nutrients. High temperatures used in frying and roasting tend to destroy many of the beneficial components. For best results, the spuds should be cooked in their skins and served without butter or sour cream.
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