Potato Substitutes for Women with Gestational Diabetes

According to a study from the  National Institutes of Health's Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and Harvard University reported on CBS, there is a correlation between potatoes and elevated blood sugar. Study author Dr. Cuilin Zhang, an investigator in Epidemiology, says that higher levels of potato consumption before pregnancy was related to developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

Potatoes are such a predominant part of many diets, from classic comfort foods like french fries and mashed potatoes to lighter options like baked or steamed potatoes. They also play a part in many soups, stews, casseroles, and the like. 

So what healthy substitutes can be used for potatoes?

1. Cauliflower: Cooked cauliflower can be mashed or pureed and used in place of potatoes for dishes like mashed potatoes or shepherd's pie.

2. Turnips: Instead of fries or roasted potatoes, try roasted turnips. Bake approximately two pounds of chopped trimmed, coarsely chopped turnips drizzled in olive oil on a bking sheet at 40 degrees for 30 minutes.

3. Kale: Kale might not sound much like a potato, but it makes the perfect healthy alternative to classic potato chips. Brush or mist kale leaves with olive oil or cooking spray and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake in a 400 degree oven for 8-10 minutes.

4. Jicama:Not everyone is familiar with jicama, but this healthy mild veggie makes a great potato substitute. Use baked, roasted, chopped, or mashed, it any of your favorite potato recipes. 

5. Celery root: Celery root is another less-common vegetable, but makes another excellent potato alternative. Bon appetit gives tips on cooking with celery root.