When we think of juicing fresh produce, we usually think of fruits, as well as certain veggies, including carrots, kale and even beets. But potatoes? These rarely enter our realm of thought regarding juice.
However, the juice of raw potatoes comes with certain health benefits, and has been traditionally used to help ease a number of ailments.
For starters, potatoes are rich in nutrients, including vitamins A and C, a range of B-vitamins, and the minerals calcium, iron, phosphorus and potassium. They are also a good source of protein and fiber, contain a number of antioxidants and are soothing to the digestive system.
When potatoes are consumed in their raw state, such as through juice, they do not raise blood sugar levels. They also retain a type of “resistant starch” which may help to soothe gastrointestinal disturbances, and has even been linked by some research to improvements in those with colon cancer.
Potato juice helps create an alkaline environment in the body, thus helping to combat excessive acid throughout the digestive system.
The antioxidants found in raw potato juice provide anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to both prevent chronic inflammatory illness, and potentially relieve the discomfort and pain of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and eczema.
Raw potato juice is also traditionally used for improving circulation, and as an ingredient in detox regimens.
Before making raw potato juice part of your diet in any significant quantity, it is wise to speak to a nutritionist or a health professional of your choice, to make sure it is safe for your individual health. Raw potatoes contain certain anti-nutrients, concentrated in the peel, so in too large of quantities, it may be harmful. For this reason, getting a professional opinion as far as quantity and duration of use, and its benefits in terms of your specific situation, is highly recommended.
Used correctly, raw potato juice could prove quite beneficial. The peel is where most of the antioxidants are concentrated, so for best juicing results, use fresh, ripe small (new) potatoes. Make sure they have no sprouts, black spots, or green spots. Two cups of raw potato chunks will make approximately a half a cup of juice.
As conventionally grown potatoes are often sprayed with pesticides and herbicides, always choose organic for your juice. Also, as the flavor is considered unpleasant by most people, it can be mixed with other fresh juices, or added to smoothies.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
http://omtimes.com/2012/10/12-benefits-of-potato-juice-a-very-healthy-drink
http://www.livestrong.com/article/279691-the-benefits-of-juicing-a-potato
http://juicing-for-health.com/basic-nutrition/healing-vegetables/health-benefits-of-potato.html
http://www.utsandiego.com/news/2009/aug/05/1f5focusm195324-pros-and-cons-munching-raw-potatoe
