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Potato Starch: 3 Amazing Health Benefits Unveiled

a bowl of potato starch next to a potato

Did you know that potato starch is not only a versatile ingredient in cooking, but also has numerous health benefits? Many people are unaware of the powerful impact that it can have on their overall well-being. It’s time to uncover the amazing health benefits of this humble pantry staple.

Potato starch has been used for centuries in various culinary dishes, but its health benefits are often overlooked. From aiding in digestion to promoting weight loss, there are countless reasons to incorporate it into your diet. Let’s explore the incredible benefits that this underrated ingredient has to offer.

Potato Starch nutrition profile

NutrientAmount per 100g
Calories333 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Sodium55 mg
Total Carbohydrates83 g
Dietary Fiber0.5 g
Sugars0 g
Protein0.1 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium20 mg
Vitamin C0 mg
Vitamin A0 IU

Uses of Potato Starch

Frying food

It could be used as a coating for fried foods. Before frying, it can be used to cover fish, poultry, and vegetables.

During the frying process, the potato starch coating can give the food an outside layer that is crispy and golden.

Thickening agents

Since potato starch absorbs water well, it is frequently used as a thickener in a variety of cuisines. On the other hand, excessive heat can cause the starch to decompose and stop absorbing moisture, which would limit the thickening effect. Therefore, it is advised to boil the starch slowly before progressively adding it to sauces.

Potato starch is used as a thickening factor in casseroles, stews, pie fillings, soups, and gravies.

Potato Starch Benefits

1. It could increase sensitivity to insulin.

Resistant starch has been found in some studies to improve insulin sensitivity. This kind of starch is found in raw it, which is sprinkled over food.

In a 2012 study, overweight men consumed only 15–30 grams (g) of resistant starch daily. In comparison, individuals who had not been consuming foods high in resistant starch displayed higher insulin sensitivity.

Reduced risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease can be attributed to increased insulin sensitivity.

It is important to note, though, that the outcomes of this study were different for the female participants than for the male ones. To find the cause, researchers urge more investigation.

2. can help with colon and digestive health.

Short-chain fatty acids are produced and beneficial bacteria in the colon are fed as resistant starch ferments.

During this process, butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid, is formed; it is essential to the colon’s cells.

Butyrate can lower colon inflammation, which lowers a person’s chance of experiencing a variety of digestive problems.

3. Resistance starch could enhance attempts to lose weight.

A 2017 investigation Consuming resistant starch makes people feel fuller after meals, according to Trusted Source. For six weeks, each participant in the study consumed 30 g of resistant starch daily. This lessened the quantity of hormones that would normally cause appetite in those who were overweight.

Those who consumed resistant starch also exhibited higher concentrations of substances that reduced their morning hunger.

By prolonging the sensation of fullness following a meal and improving the duration of fullness, resistant starch in the diet may support attempts to lose weight.

Risks of potato starch

In general, there are not many health hazards associated with it. Similar to fiber, resistant starches like it have extremely few after-consumption adverse effects.

On the other hand, some people could discover that consuming a lot of it causes bloating and gas.

potato starch alternatives

There are numerous alternatives to potato starch. A person can replace it with one of the following options:

Potato starch vs. potato flour

Nutrient/PropertyPotato StarchPotato Flour
SourceExtracted from it granulesWhole potatoes (peeled, cooked, dried, ground)
AppearanceFine, white powderFine, off-white to cream-colored powder
TasteNeutral, flavorlessMild potato flavor
Calories (per 100g)333 kcal357 kcal
Total Fat (per 100g)0.1 g0.34 g
Total Carbohydrates (per 100g)83 g83.1 g
Dietary Fiber (per 100g)0.5 g5.9 g
Sugars (per 100g)0 g3.3 g
Protein (per 100g)0.1 g6.9 g
Sodium (per 100g)55 mg55 mg
Calcium (per 100g)10 mg40 mg
Iron (per 100g)0.3 mg1.28 mg
Potassium (per 100g)20 mg1,332 mg
Vitamin C (per 100g)0 mg33 mg
Gluten-FreeYesYes
UsesThickening agent in soups, sauces, and graviesBaking, thickening, gluten-free recipes
Water AbsorptionLowHigh

Summary

It may be used as an ingredient in various recipes. It is useful for thickening sauces, making a gluten-free addition to baking recipes, and acting as a suitable coating for dishes while frying.

It may also provide various health benefits, such as enhanced colon health and insulin sensitivity. It may also help with weight loss efforts.

Cornstarch, arrowroot powder, rice flour, and tapioca starch are all appropriate alternatives to potato starch.

FAQs

Is potato starch good for health?

Potato starch, being a resistant starch, has demonstrated favorable effects on gut flora and insulin levels, among other possible advantages. It’s not a very good source of nutrition, though. For those on a gluten-free diet, it is an alternate ingredient.

Is potato starch healthier than flour?

Of course, potato flour has far more nutritious value than starch. It’s also a healthier, gluten-free substitute for wheat flour because it’s high in vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber.

Does potato starch have side effects?

In general, there are not many health hazards associated with it. Similar to fiber, resistant starches like it have extremely few after-consumption adverse effects. On the other hand, some people could discover that consuming a lot of potato starch causes bloating and gas.

References

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information before consuming any medication. Elnodi does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability, or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

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