FOOD NEWS
Are Raw
Potatoes Actually
Safe To Eat?
By Nico Danilovich
Many factors, such as the lack of
a heat source or the various nutritional advantages raw potatoes have, may lead someone to choose to consume a raw potato.
Raw potatoes can fuel healthy gut bacteria, improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood sugar, and aid in weight loss, as well as relieve bloating, IBS, and stomach pain.
Despite their benefits, raw potatoes unfortunately also contain toxic glycoalkaloid chemicals, which can lead to diarrhea and nausea, as well as inflict drowsiness and itchiness.
When you eat too many raw potatoes, your body doesn't effectively absorb them and instead ferments them in your gut, which can result in bloating and stomach pain.
Since raw potatoes are often unwashed, they are more susceptible to foodborne illness. Raw potatoes are also lower in potassium, protein, and vitamin B6 than baked potatoes.
Cooking potatoes reduces harmful aspects, kills bacteria, and improves certain nutritional elements, so just err on the side of caution and avoid eating them raw.