REV UP YOUR ENERGY, BODY AND BRAIN WITH POTATOES!

The potato is a great fitness food for kids and adults, providing long-lasting energy, vitamins, minerals and fiber. The potato has some iron and its high Vitamin C content promotes iron absorption. It is also high in vitamins B1, B3 and B6 and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus and magnesium, and it contains folate, pantothenic acid and riboflavin. Potatoes also provide antioxidants, which may play a part in preventing diseases related to aging.

Sweet potatoes, which botanically aren't related to white potatoes, also have a lot of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. I bake sweet potatoes ahead of time and have one for preworkout fuel or a snack during the day. They are easy to carry in a food container or to keep handy in the refrigerator for times when the kids need refueling.

Potatoes not only help control blood sugar, but improve mood by boosting levels of serotonin, a brain neurotransmitter that aids mood and behavior. A hearty potato can also help fill you up, providing appetite control for later in the day.

You can bake, boil, steam or microwave potatoes, cut them into bite-size pieces and then add some herbs and little olive or canola oil for a tasty side dish or snack. Use fresh potatoes. Instant mashed potatoes don’t provide the same long-lasting energy.