In the United States, an unexpected debate has arisen in the fields of botany and nutrition science. American scientists have stated that it is necessary to reconsider the traditional practice of classifying potatoes as vegetables. According to them, potatoes should no longer be considered vegetables, but rather products belonging to the grain category.
Special studies note that most people in the U.S. perceive potatoes as a “healthy vegetable” and frequently include them in their diet. However, the opposite effect is observed — potatoes, long thought of as vegetables, because of their high calorie and starch content, lead to weight gain. For this reason, scientists suggested equating them with rice or wheat.
Experts emphasize that, logically, this debate may not be limited only to potatoes. For example, grapes and bananas are traditionally considered fruits, but due to their high sugar and calorie content, in some diets they cause more harm than good. From this perspective, the issue of reclassifying them may also be raised.
According to scientists, the main goal is to update people’s understanding of proper nutrition and guide them on a scientific basis. In many cases, people should not focus on a product’s botanical classification but on its caloric value and its beneficial or harmful effects.
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