When dieters think about foods to avoid at Thanksgiving (or any holiday meal) mashed potatoes usually top the list. Potatoes, in general, have a bad reputation among dieters. But it is possible to make healthy mashed potatoes and stick to your diet to lose weight.
Are Potatoes Bad for Your Diet?
Potatoes are not necessarily bad for you if you are trying to lose weight. Potatoes are naturally low in fat and high in both potassium and vitamin C.
Of course, potatoes are starchy, so people who are following a low-carb diet may want to avoid them. But if you are counting calories, potatoes aren't a bad choice because there are only about 100 calories in a potato. The key for dieters is choosing the healthiest potato recipes, because it's usually not the potato that causes problems.
Calories in Mashed Potatoes
Even though plain potatoes are low in calories, mashed potatoes aren't always healthy. A traditional homemade serving of mashed potatoes can contain 237 calories or more when they are prepared with butter and whole milk. Some chefs even prepare mashed potatoes with heavy cream, which drives the fat and calorie count higher. And if you top your potatoes with gravy, then your total intake could exceed 400 calories.
If you love mashed potatoes, try making a healthier version with less fat. Skip the butter and use low-fat milk or chicken stock to soften and whip the potatoes. Or try this Garlic Mashed Potato recipe for a dish with more flavor. And remember that portion control is essential.
A single serving of mashed potatoes is just one cup.
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