Eating green potatoes can have serious effects on health, know the opinion of experts

New Delhi, 21 November 2024 – Potato is one of the most common vegetables in the kitchen of every home. It finds its place in bhartas, paranthas, curries and many dishes. But do you know that if the color of potato turns green then eating it can be dangerous for health? This question arises in the minds of many people. Nutrition experts believe that a toxic compound is found in green potatoes, which can harm the body.

Why does green potato appear green in color?

When potatoes are kept in more light or under favorable conditions, they solanine A compound called starts forming. This compound makes potatoes green. It is present in the form of solanine glycoalkaloid, which naturally develops in the plant for protection against insects.

Nutritionist Kavita Devgan Says that high amounts of solanine can be toxic to the body. However, potatoes with small green spots can be eaten if peeled and cooked properly. But when the potato is completely green, one should avoid eating it.

What harm can happen from eating green potatoes?

Solanine present in green potatoes can cause many health problems. These mainly include the following problems:

1. upset stomach – Eating green potatoes can cause problems like stomach ache, vomiting and diarrhea.
2. Danger of food poisoning – Solanine in large amounts can cause food poisoning.
3. headache and restlessness – Solanine present in green potatoes can cause headache and restlessness.
4. digestive problems – Consuming green potatoes continuously can have a bad effect on the digestive system.
5. risk of cancer – According to some research, excess of solanine in green potatoes may increase the risk of cancer.

Ways to avoid eating green potatoes

Experts say that potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry and dark place. By doing this the possibility of formation of solanine in potatoes reduces. Apart from this, you can avoid eating green potatoes by adopting the following measures:

• peel the green part – If some parts of the potato are green, remove them by peeling them and cutting off the dark parts.
• Do not use green potatoes – If the potato has become completely green, stop eating it.
• Take care of storage – Avoid keeping potatoes in excessive light.

What do experts say?

According to Kavita Devgan, ignoring the toxicity of solanine can be dangerous. He said, “Green potatoes should always be looked at carefully. If a large part of the potato is green, it is better to throw it away.”

According to another nutritionist, the amount of solanine in potatoes does not reduce completely even after cooking. Therefore, it is safe to avoid eating green potatoes completely.

home tips

• Avoid plastic bags to keep potatoes fresh for longer.
• Do not store potatoes with onions, as this affects the freshness of both.
• If sprouts start appearing on the potatoes, remove them immediately.

Special precautions for children and elderly

Experts say that children and the elderly may be at greater risk from green potatoes because their immune systems are weak. In such a situation, people of this age should not eat green potatoes at all.