Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Health Benefits of Potato Water/ Juice

Written by Elfas Mcloud Zadzagomo Shangwa (Hunter) to encourage Potato farming in Africa through unavailing its many health benefits to our health.

Health benefits found in Potato Juice and how you can make it.

Potato water mixed with lemon and honey is a simple and potentially beneficial beverage that can be used as a nutrition intake for health and wellness. To make this drink, you boil potatoes in water and then strain the water to separate it from the potatoes. This starchy water can then be combined with lemon juice and honey to create a refreshing and nutritious beverage.


Photo Credit Research Gate


Potato water contains some of the water-soluble nutrients from the potatoes, such as certain vitamins and minerals. When combined with lemon juice, which is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, and honey, which provides natural sweetness and potential health benefits, the resulting mixture can offer a range of potential health properties.


The combination of potato water, lemon, and honey may provide a source of hydration, as well as some vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Lemon juice contributes vitamin C and antioxidants, which can support the immune system and promote skin health. Honey may offer its own set of potential health benefits, including antimicrobial properties and soothing effects.



Here's a simple recipe for making potato water and a suggested daily intake for incorporating it into a healthy diet:

Potato Water Recipe:

Ingredients:

- 2-3 medium-sized potatoes

- Water

- Lemon juice

- Honey (optional)


Instructions:

1. Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.

2. Cut the potatoes into chunks or slices, leaving the skin on for added nutrients.

3. Place the potato pieces in a large pot and cover them with about 4-5 cups of water.

4. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the potatoes to cook in the water for about 15-20 minutes or until they are soft.

5. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

6. Strain the potato water into a separate container, separating the starchy water from the potato pieces. Discard the potato pieces or save them for another use.

7. Allow the potato water to cool to room temperature.


To prepare the drink:

1. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the potato water. The amount of lemon juice can be adjusted according to your taste preferences.

2. If desired, add some honey to sweeten the drink. Stir well to combine the ingredients.


Here are the nutrients found in each item in the recipe and their potential benefits to the human body:


1. Potatoes:

   Nutrients: Potatoes are a good source of several nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, fibre, and antioxidants.

   Benefits:

   - Vitamin C: Supports the immune system, promotes skin health, and acts as an antioxidant to protect cells from damage.

   - Vitamin B6: Plays a role in brain development and function, as well as in the production of neurotransmitters.

   - Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and supports proper muscle and nerve function.

   - Fiber: Aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain regular bowel movements.

   - Antioxidants: Protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.


2. Lemon Juice:

   Nutrients: Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, as well as smaller amounts of vitamin B6, vitamin A, folate, potassium, and antioxidants.

   Benefits:

   - Vitamin C: Supports the immune system, promotes skin health, and acts as a powerful antioxidant.

   - Vitamin A: Essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.

   - Potassium: Helps regulate fluid balance, muscle function, and nerve signals.

   - Antioxidants: Protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and contribute to overall health and well-being.


3. Honey:

   Nutrients: Honey contains small amounts of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, niacin, riboflavin, and minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc.

   Benefits:

   - Antimicrobial Properties: Can help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.

   - Antioxidants: Contributes to overall health and protects the body from oxidative stress.

   - Soothing Effects: May help soothe the throat and provide relief from coughs and sore throats.

   - Energy: Provides a natural source of carbohydrates for energy.


When incorporating potato water mixed with lemon and honey into your daily routine, it's important to do so in moderation. While the drink offers potential health benefits, it's essential to consider it as part of a balanced and varied diet. Here's a suggested daily intake for this beverage:


Suggested Daily Intake:

It's recommended to consume this drink in moderation as part of a balanced diet. One to two servings per day can be a reasonable starting point, but individual needs and tolerances may vary. A serving size can be around 1 cup (8 ounces) of the prepared drink.


As with any dietary changes or additions, it's a good idea to monitor how your body responds to new foods and beverages. If you have any specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance on incorporating new items into your diet, including this particular beverage.

Watch this Video: 

                                                       Video Credit Producer 

By combining these ingredients, the resulting drink can offer a range of potential health benefits, including immune support, skin health, digestion aid, and antioxidant protection. However, it's important to note that while these ingredients offer valuable nutrients and potential health benefits, they should be part of a diverse and balanced diet. As with any dietary change, individual responses to specific foods and beverages can vary, so it's essential to monitor how your body responds to new additions to your diet. If you have specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.


#PotatoPower

#PotatoForHealth

Credit Elfas Mcloud Zadzagomo Shangwa/Hunter  +26773269606

Executive President and Founder 

Farmer's Pride International: https://www.farmersprideinternational.org/

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