It is often forgotten that potatoes are in fact a very healthy vegetable. They are rich in complex carbohydrates which supply energy, but are relatively low in calories. One medium sized potato also contains around five grams of fiber, which is incredibly healthy for the digestive system. Potatoes are also rich in vitamins and minerals.
Potatoes contain the most potassium of all fresh fruits and vegetables, including bananas. One potato has over 800 milligrams, which is close to 20% of the ideal amount to be consumed on a daily basis. Potassium is necessary for body growth and cell maintenance. It’s also important for the functioning of the nervous system, as well as normal muscle contraction, including the heart muscle. It is also an electrolyte which helps to balance fluids in the body.
Potatoes are rich in Vitamin C and B6 as well, which boost the immune system and contribute to the healing of wounds and blood clotting.
German doctors claim to have cured AIDS. The patient, who was infected by both the virus and leukemia, received a bone marrow transplant from a donor who had a genetic mutation which is known to grant immunity to the virus. The mutation affects a receptor, or cellular doorway, that the AIDS viruses usually breach in order to infect the cell. The mutation has been known to researchers since the 90s, and is most common in people of a Northern European descent.
A new study shows that people who begin an active lifestyle at a young age, and keep it up into their middle years, can greatly lessen mid-life weight gain and other health issues. People generally focus on exercise as a way to eliminate excess weight, as opposed to a way to prevent it. The results of the study show that this may be a mistake. Dr. Arlene L. Hankinson, the lead researcher explained that “it’s not so much about achieving some dramatically high activity level. It’s about maintaining a level of daily physical activity over time.”