Cold potatoes: A surprising superfood for gut health

Usually, we treat such potatoes as leftovers from lunch. Meanwhile, an expert convinces us they are healthy and worth eating as often as possible. According to her, they are among the best foods for our intestines. Can you guess why?

Boiled potatoes served warm are the most popular side dish for lunch. However, dietitian Maz Packham, in the British version of "Vogue" magazine, argues they are also worth eating cold. She explains exactly what it's all about.

The issue with warm and cold potatoes is not that complicated. It's about starch; we all know that these vegetables contain it. However, the starch in warm and cold potatoes affects our bodies differently. When potatoes are cooked, the starch becomes active. Our body then processes it in a completely different way. Cooked starch turns into glucose, which is then absorbed. But when potatoes are cooked and cooled, the starch is converted into resistant starch. This form is most beneficial for our intestines.

When resistant starch reaches the large intestine, it begins to ferment, creating excellent conditions for the growth of good bacteria. Besides, it acts as a prebiotic, providing food for the existing bacteria. “Prebiotic foods are important to nourish and support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut such as lactobacillus and bifidobacteria,” adds Maz Packham.

Abdominal issues can be significantly less troublesome when these beneficial bacteria are active in the gut. The expert refers to conditions like bloating and constipation. If they bother you, remember to include cold potatoes in your meals. Additionally, resistant starch not only improves gut function but can also reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Now is the best time to introduce cold potatoes into your diet. Young potatoes in this form are delicious and suitable for many salads. Combine them with pickles and dill, and drizzle with olive oil. If you're out of ideas, here's one more from the British "Vogue" expert:

"Combining cold potatoes with kimchi makes a gut-friendly lunch option, as the prebiotic in the potatoes can act as food for the probiotic bacteria found in the kimchi," says the dietitian.

It's quite an original combination. What do you think about cold potatoes with kimchi?