“Americans just don’t eat as many fruits and vegetables as we should. And when we do, they’re mainly potatoes and tomatoes — in the not-so-nutritious forms of french fries and pizza, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.” (http://www.npr.org/blogs/thesalt/2014/05/21/311895781/the-vegetables-most-americans-eat-are-drowning-in-salt-and-fat).

We love our french fries and chips in this country and according to a the recent NPR article “The vegetables most Americans eat are drowning in salt and fat”, “…potatoes are great on their own — they’re a good source of potassium. But most Americans eat them with a hefty side of fat and sodium. According to the USDA’s handy chart, at home, most people get their potato fix in the form of chips. And when eating out, about 60 percent of the potatoes we consume are fried. Baked potatoes are also popular, but most people don’t eat the skin — a great source of fiber that fills you up.”

So, eat your potatoes, but load them up with veggies, salsa, or even some tofu sour cream, eat the skin and skip the sour cream, butter, and french fries. Here’s a great easy recipe from plant based blogger Potato Strong for crispy baked fries if you’re craving an old comfort food and are in need of a fix: http://potatostrong.com/crispy-fat-potato-fries/. He also has a great recipe for potato chips with no added fat.

Here’s a short video by Dr. McDougall, “In Defense of the Potato”

Eat more potaotes!

Breakfast- Oats with blueberries, raisins, and a banana with grape nuts and almond milk

Snack- banana

Lunch- 2 Wendy’s side salads, baked potato and apple slices

Snack- baked corn tortilla chips with chipotle seasoning and Edie’s salsa

Supper- Tossed salad with 3-2-1 dressing, leftover Thai carrot soup with jasmine rice

Dessert- Watermelon and blueberries and a Wasa cracker with peanut butter