Potatoes can protect against deadly duo of Covid-19 and heart disease

HEALTH experts have raised a red flag on the deadly connection between Covid-19 and heart disease, warning that a balanced, healthy diet is more important than ever for safeguarding your health – which is where the power of potatoes can play a vital role.

As September marks the start of Heart Awareness Month, a powerhouse vegetable such as potatoes can be essential for protection against the deadly combination of Covid-19 and heart disease.

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In a recent Harvard Health article, cardiologist Dr Dara K Lee Lewis noted that in comparison with the general population, individuals suffering from cardiovascular disease (CVD) ‘were more than twice as likely to contract severe forms of Covid-19’.

Lockdown and working from home have also had a negative impact on household lifestyles, and a number of surveys have revealed that many South Africans have reported a decline in their physical activity levels and a significant rise in weight gain over the past year – factors which further raise the risk of heart disease and strokes.

This is particularly concerning, given that according to the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa, some 225 South Africans already die of heart disease every day.

To mark the start of Heart Awareness Month culminating on World Heart Day on 29 September, Potatoes South Africa has launched an exciting digital campaign under the tagline #WeHeartAmazambane (we heart potatoes).

This campaign aims to educate households on the specific heart health benefits of potatoes, and to encourage consumers to share their favourite tasty and heart-friendly potato recipes.

Immaculate Zinde from Potatoes South Africa notes that Heart Awareness Month is the perfect time to renew your focus on managing your health by following a balanced diet featuring heart-friendly vegetables such as potatoes.

According to Zinde, potatoes pack a punch of potassium. In fact, potatoes offer more potassium than any other vegetable – and even more than bananas.

Notably, potassium is a crucial ally in the struggle against high blood pressure – a major risk factor for heart disease and strokes.

As if their high potassium levels weren’t enough, potatoes are also naturally cholesterol-free, have zero saturated fats and are low in sodium – three more heart health points which work strongly in their favour.

Additionally, potatoes’ high fibre content can actively help to lower your cholesterol – another significant risk factor for heart disease.

Unfortunately, there are still many myths and misconceptions about potatoes, but they are actually packed with fibre and nutrients that can actively help to lower your risk of heart disease.

‘Given the effects of the pandemic on our health and well-being, it’s particularly important to understand the numerous rewards of potatoes for your body, and how you can cook them correctly for the most benefit,’ she says.