Potatoes, yellow fleshed, hash brown, shredded
Category: Vegetables & Vegetable Products Characteristics: Salt Added In Processing, Unprepared State: Frozen
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
69
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 61 (88.9%) |
Protein | 6.9 (10.1%) |
Fat | 0.5 (0.8%) |
Total | 69 (100%) |
Serving: 3 oz [85g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Water | 67 (78.3%) |
Carbohydrate | 15 (18.0%) |
Protein | 1.7 (2.0%) |
Ash | 1.3 (1.6%) |
Fat | 0.06 (0.1%) |
Total | 85 (100%) |
Serving: 3 oz [85g]
Benefits
-
Potatoes are a good source of potassium which helps regulate blood pressure and heart function
-
They provide vitamin C and various B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid and pyridoxine
-
Potatoes contain fiber which aids digestion and makes you feel full for longer
-
They are low in calories and fat making them a good choice for weight management
-
The yellow flesh indicates presence of carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin which are good for eye health
Risks
-
High in sodium due to added salt in processing. Excess sodium intake is linked to high blood pressure
-
High in carbohydrates and can raise blood sugar levels, especially for those with diabetes or prediabetes
-
Lack fiber and other nutrients found in whole potatoes. Fiber aids digestion and heart health
-
May contain acrylamide, a potential carcinogen formed during high-temperature cooking processes like frying
-
Can contribute empty calories and weight gain if overconsumed
Additional Information
Potatoes, yellow fleshed, hash brown, shredded, salt added in processing, frozen, unprepared, are a popular and versatile food item that can be enjoyed in various ways. They offer several nutritional benefits, but also come with some risks due to the processing methods and added salt. Let's delve into the details.
Nutritional Benefits:
1. Carbohydrates: Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing energy that fuels the body and supports physical activity.
2. Fiber: This food product contains dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. However, the amount of fiber may be reduced during processing.
3. Vitamins: Potatoes are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption. They also contain B vitamins like vitamin B6, which is essential for brain development and function.
4. Minerals: These hash browns provide important minerals such as potassium, which is crucial for maintaining proper heart and muscle function, as well as regulating blood pressure. Additionally, they contain magnesium, which supports bone health and plays a role in various enzymatic reactions in the body.
Risks:
1. High Sodium Content: The addition of salt during processing increases the sodium content in these hash browns. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Individuals with hypertension or other health conditions requiring a low-sodium diet should consume these hash browns in moderation or seek low-sodium alternatives.
2. Processing Methods: The freezing and processing of hash browns can lead to a loss of some nutrients, including vitamin C and dietary fiber. Fresh potatoes generally retain more nutrients, so opting for homemade hash browns using fresh ingredients may be a healthier choice.
3. Acrylamide Formation: When potatoes are fried or cooked at high temperatures, a chemical compound called acrylamide can form. Acrylamide has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers in animal studies. While the acrylamide content in hash browns is generally lower compared to other fried potato products, it is still advisable to consume them in moderation and diversify your diet with other nutrient-rich foods.
Tips for Healthier Consumption:
1. Moderation: Enjoy these hash browns as an occasional treat rather than a staple in your diet to avoid excessive sodium intake.
2. Homemade Preparation: Consider making your own hash browns using fresh potatoes to retain more nutrients and have control over the added salt content.
3. Pair with Nutrient-Rich Foods: Incorporate these hash browns into a balanced meal by pairing them with vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to enhance the overall nutritional value.
In conclusion, while yellow fleshed, shredded hash browns offer some nutritional benefits such as carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, they also come with risks due to added salt and processing methods. Moderation, homemade preparation, and pairing with nutrient-rich foods can help mitigate these risks and ensure a healthier consumption of this food product.