Is mashed potato low calorie? the truth revealed!
What To Know
- In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nutritional profile of mashed potatoes to answer the question, “Is mashed potato low calorie.
- Plain mashed potatoes are relatively low in calories, but adding butter, cream, or other ingredients can increase the calorie content.
- Plain mashed potatoes can be a part of a healthy diet, but it is important to limit the amount of butter and other high-calorie ingredients.
Mashed potatoes are a beloved comfort food, but are they a healthy choice? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nutritional profile of mashed potatoes to answer the question, “Is mashed potato low calorie?”
What Is Mashed Potato?
Mashed potato is a dish made from boiled potatoes that are mashed until smooth. It is often seasoned with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mashed potatoes can be a side dish or a main course.
Nutritional Value of Mashed Potato
A 100-gram serving of mashed potatoes contains approximately:
- Calories: 93
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 21 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
Is Mashed Potato Low Calorie?
The answer to this question depends on how the mashed potatoes are prepared. Plain mashed potatoes, made with only potatoes, milk, and salt, are relatively low in calories. However, adding butter, cream, or sour cream can significantly increase the calorie content.
Factors Affecting Calorie Content
The following factors can affect the calorie content of mashed potatoes:
- Type of potato: Russet potatoes have a higher calorie content than Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
- Amount of milk: Using more milk will increase the calorie content.
- Amount of butter: Butter is high in calories, so adding more butter will increase the calorie content.
- Other ingredients: Adding cheese, gravy, or bacon will also increase the calorie content.
Health Benefits of Mashed Potato
Despite their calorie content, mashed potatoes can provide some health benefits:
- Rich in potassium: Potatoes are a good source of potassium, which is essential for heart health.
- Good source of fiber: Mashed potatoes contain fiber, which is important for digestive health.
- Contains vitamin C: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, which is an antioxidant.
How to Make Mashed Potatoes Low Calorie
Here are some tips for making mashed potatoes low calorie:
- Use low-fat milk: Opt for skim milk or 1% milk instead of whole milk.
- Limit butter: Use a small amount of butter or substitute it with olive oil.
- Add vegetables: Mix in mashed carrots, parsnips, or cauliflower to increase the nutritional value and reduce the calorie content.
- Avoid adding cheese, gravy, or bacon: These ingredients can significantly increase the calorie content.
Final Note: Is Mashed Potato Low Calorie?
The answer to the question, “Is mashed potato low calorie?” is both yes and no. Plain mashed potatoes are relatively low in calories, but adding butter, cream, or other ingredients can increase the calorie content. By following the tips above, you can enjoy mashed potatoes without sacrificing your health goals.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Is mashed potato high in carbohydrates?
A: Yes, mashed potatoes are high in carbohydrates. A 100-gram serving contains approximately 21 grams of carbohydrates.
Q: Is mashed potato good for weight loss?
A: Mashed potatoes are not a good choice for weight loss, especially if they are made with high-calorie ingredients like butter, cream, or cheese.
Q: Is mashed potato a healthy food?
A: Plain mashed potatoes can be a part of a healthy diet, but it is important to limit the amount of butter and other high-calorie ingredients.