“Are potatoes/pumpkins/squash considered vegetables? Should I avoid them because I heard they have higher amounts of carbohydrates?” are types of questions I receive often from my clients, especially around this time of the year. Let’s dive into answering this!
Yes, potatoes, pumpkins and squash are considered vegetables and no you should not avoid them. It is true that these vegetables contain more carbohydrates than some other vegetables like broccoli but let’s break down the numbers and discuss the additional nutrients they provide.
Potatoes (1/2 cup cooked): 15 g of carbohydrates
Butternut Squash (1/2 cup cooked): 11 g of carbohydrate
Pumpkin (1/2 cup cooked): 6 g of carbohydrate
Broccoli (1/2 cup cooked): 6 g of carbohydrate
As you can see, potatoes and squash have only 5-9 g more carbohydrate than broccoli and pumpkin actually has the same amount of carbohydrate per serving. As well, potatoes, squash and pumpkin are good sources of potassium, fibre and beta carotene. These nutrients can assist with preventing heart disease and certain types of cancers. Consuming half cup of squash or pumpkin will provide you with the recommended amount of beta-carotene that is associated with reducing the risk for chronic diseases.
The bottom line: Don’t avoid these starchy fall vegetables due to a fear that they provide too many carbohydrates – they provide many health benefits and they are delicious additions to your fall cooking!
