GUT HEALTH

A single baked potato will provide nearly 12 per cent of the daily recommended amount of fibre, giving similar levels to whole grain breads, pastas and cereals. High levels of dietary fibre and bulking agents support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, while giving a protective effect from colon cancer. While most potato fibre is found in the skin, some of the starch in potatoes is indigestible. Instead it passes through the gut intact, adding bulk. If you suffer from sluggish bowel movements, eat cooked potatoes that have been cooled. The cooling process increases the amount of indigestible starch from seven per cent to 13 per cent.