PLAY THE FIELD

The Great British tuber may have fallen foul of fake fast- carb news, but at its root, the spud remains a nutritional powerhouse – you just need to unearth its true potential

Look past the trans-fat fried snacks giving spuds a bad name – at its purest, the potato is an energising super- carb, packed with nutrients. And we Brits do them best. “The potato has long been integral to UK cuisine,” says Josh Eggleton of Michelin-starred pub The Pony & Trap. “Over 500 years we’ve evolved the ingredient into many homegrown varieties, each with its own taste and texture.” Better still, the pride of British farmers offers a field of health and fitness benefits. Dig in.

NEW POTATOES

Our prestigious Jersey Royal comes into season in March, but second crop Charlottes and Carlingfords are available if you look hard enough. All come packed full of potassium for improved muscle function.

PURPLE MAJESTY

When it comes to heart health, purple reigns supreme. Eating these autumn specialities daily will drop your blood pressure by a significant 4% – equal to the effect from a bowl of porridge, but with half the calories.

RUSSET BURBANK

Dense and delicious, these will elevate your jackets beyond a microwave quick fix. Russets field 10% of your protein RDA and are high in vit C to protect your immune system after training. Perfect post-workout fuel.

WAT TS SWEET

Now a favourite among fitness enthusiasts, this variety packs genuine weightloss benefits. With twice the fibre of most white potatoes, this satiety supercrop will ground 3pm snacking while dishing up antioxidant vitamin A.

ON THE BEET

Added to salad or blended into a pre-workout drink, beetroot is a true performanceenhancer: 500ml can help you train for 16% longer.