Potato starch is a white, free-flowing substance that, when it enters the human stomach, is converted into glucose. Undoubtedly, it is beneficial if consumed in small quantities.
Useful properties of starch
Potato starch belongs to complex carbohydrates, the calorie content of 100 g of the product is slightly more than 300 kcal and makes up 80% of the daily carbohydrate requirement for a person. In cooking, it performs the function of a paste, therefore it is used to impart viscosity to a solution when preparing sauces, jelly, gravies, etc. When mixed with water, the powder begins to swell and expand in volume. But such a solution cannot be stored for a long time, as it begins to exfoliate and become cloudy. They can also replace part of the flour when kneading the dough, as a result of which the baked goods are more crumbly and fluffy.
One of the beneficial properties of starch for humans is its ability to lower cholesterol levels, therefore it is recommended to be consumed by people with diseases of the cardiovascular system. The increased content of potassium has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the kidneys and liver, due to this, excess fluid is removed from the body, which leads to various disorders and diseases of the internal organs.
In folk medicine, potato starch is an effective remedy for the treatment and prevention of gastric diseases. With regular use, the risk of stomach or duodenal ulcers is significantly reduced. The action is based on the ability to envelop the mucous membrane, relieve inflammation and lower the acidity of gastric juice. It should be noted that starch improves the synthesis of riboflavin, without which the correct functioning of the digestive tract and metabolic processes is impossible.
The calcium and phosphorus content of starch is beneficial for bones, hair, nails and teeth. Zero fat allows overweight people to eat, and a high enough concentration of unrefined carbohydrates helps prevent the development of tumors and the growth of pathogenic cells.
Is starch harmful to humans?
With the frequent use of potato starch, the accumulation of unspent energy occurs. This gradually leads to the formation of fat cells, therefore it is not recommended for people who are overweight.
Starch can enter the body in two ways:
- in the process of eating potato dishes;
- use of ready-made powder.
Of course, the second method is less useful, since the production uses technologies that lead to product modification. As a result, the risk of developing atherosclerosis, hormonal imbalance, vision problems, etc. increases. Any modified product leads to an increase in the threat of various diseases. A person who actively uses such starch is much more likely to suffer from disorders in the work of the pancreas.
