Potatoes are hands-down one of the most popular vegetables consumed by Americans. In fact, it is estimated that almost 50 pounds of potatoes were consumed by each American in 2019, with french fries being the most common preparation.

Approximately 1 out of every 10 has diabetes, and many may be wondering whether eating this popular, higher-carb vegetable is safe for this condition. Unfortunately, the answer to this question isn't completely black-and-white. Any food that you are not allergic to is safe to enjoy in moderation on a diabetes-friendly diet. But just as there are various ways to prepare and enjoy these starchy spuds, there are nuances to how they affect someone who has diabetes.

To start understanding how people with diabetes can enjoy carbs like potatoes, we first need to understand what potatoes are and how eating them can impact blood sugar levels.

Potato Nutrition ;

As an underground-grown veggie that is accessible, affordable and extremely versatile, potatoes can be served in a multitude of ways, from crispy fried shoestrings to fluffy mashed side dishes to even creamy soups topped with bacon bits and chives. But on their own, potatoes offer up some pretty impressive nutrition.

One medium russet potato with the skin on contains:

168 calories

4 grams protein

0.2 grams fat

39 grams carbohydrates

3 grams fiber

1.83 mg iron (10% recommended daily allowance [RDA])

888 mg potassium (34% RDA)

12 mg vitamin C (16% RDA)

Potatoes provide a variety of important nutrients that we all need, including those with diabetes. But it is important to note that these veggies are quite high in the carbohydrate department. Not only are they rich in carbs, but potatoes are considered to be a high glycemic index food, meaning that the carbs are quickly absorbed by the body and may cause a blood sugar spike. This is why it's important to enjoy more moderate portions of potatoes and to pair them with slower-digesting foods like non-starchy vegetables and protein.

Read more - https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8009592/can-people-with-diabetes-eat-potatoes/