Starch is a loose powder (white or yellowish), which is obtained from potatoes. It belongs to the complex carbohydrates present in various vegetables and fruits, cereals and legumes. In the stomach, the substance is converted to glucose, which is a source of energy. In addition, potato starch often acts as a paste. Therefore, it is indispensable in the preparation of various sauces, jelly and gravy. This product is also used for baking. In particular, it can partially replace flour. It gives dough products friability.
Potato Starch: Benefits
First of all, it is worth noting that this product lowers cholesterol. Thus, it has anti-sclerotic properties. In addition, potato starch contains a lot of potassium. This trace element is necessary for those who are struggling with kidney disease. Also, starch helps to remove excess fluid from the body.
Traditional medicine considers starch a good anti-ulcer remedy. After all, it has anti-inflammatory and enveloping properties. After numerous studies, it was proved that the described product can activate the synthesis of vitamin B2 (riboflavin). The named substance is necessary for the normalization of metabolism and good digestion.
Potato starch: harm
Refined starches obtained in the process of industrial production are considered harmful (referring to the usual white powder). During digestion, they increase insulin levels, which subsequently leads to atherosclerosis, various hormonal disorders and eyeball pathology. But remember that the harm of starch will only affect the high content of this powder in products subjected to heat treatment. Sometimes it even contributes to the development of cancer. Indeed, during high-temperature processing, a toxic substance is formed in starch. Lovers of chips and fried potatoes should definitely remember this.
Modified starch
By studying the composition of a product, you can find such a component as “modified starch”. If we talk about ordinary starch, then it is familiar to everyone, but what is meant by an obscure specification "modified"? How harmful is this dietary supplement? Where to buy starch that is safe for health?
Modified starch, as a result of a whole cycle of changes, acquires the ability to retain moisture. Namely, this allows you to get the product of the required consistency and improves the properties of starch as a thickener. At the same time, product modification does not affect its gene structure. At present, about two dozen types of modified starches are used in Russia. They are separated by the method of preparation: bleached, heat treated, oxidized, etc. But it is worth noting that, according to the observations of Moscow doctors, in children who actively consume foods with the addition of modified starch, the risk of pancreatic diseases increases.