2025-04-21 – News – www.theguardian.com
Spuds have a reputation for causing spikes in blood sugar, but it all depends on the variety and the way it is prepared
Potatoes are a staple of the British diet. However, they have gained a bad reputation, with concerns about them spiking our blood sugar levels – which, if repeated over time, can increase the risk of diabetes.
“It depends on the type of potato and how you prepare it,” says Dr Christine Bosch, from Leeds University’s School of Food and Nutrition. She explains that while regular potatoes cause a higher spike in blood sugar than sweet potatoes, they are a valuable source of carbohydrate – a key macronutrient. Potatoes also contain fibre and polyphenols, which slow digestion, leaving you feeling fuller for longer.
