Yukon Gold Potato Nutrition

Potatoes are known as tuber vegetables which grow underground. The Yukon Gold potato is a particular type that is round, medium in size and yellow in color. If you want to see if Yukon Golds fit into your diet plan, the nutritional content of these potatoes can help you to decide that.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the body's energy source. Once they are consumed, they are used for energy immediately or stored in the liver and muscles and used for energy at a later time. All forms of potatoes are primarily known as high-carb foods, or starches. A medium-sized --148 g -- Yukon Gold potato has 26 g of carbohydrates.

Fiber

Fiber comes in the form of soluble and insoluble matter, and your body cannot break down the latter. Not only does fiber relieve and prevent constipation, but it also maintains bowel integrity, reduces cholesterol levels, stabilizes blood sugar and aids in weight loss, according to MayoClinic.com. Yukon Golds contain insoluble fiber and a medium-sized potato has about 3 g.

Protein

Protein is a macronutrient that the body needs for cell and muscle repair, as well as immunity. Potatoes in general are not very high in protein, and a medium-sized Yukon Gold has about 4 g.

Calories

It is important to monitor calories when you are trying to lose or maintain weight. Even if you are trying to bulk up, it is good to know calorie contents so you can add foods to your meals to reach a certain caloric goal. A medium-sized Yukon Gold has 100 calories. Keep in mind that this will change if you add toppings like sour cream, cheese or bacon bits.

Vitamin C

Antioxidants are substances that soak up free radicals in the body. Free radicals can damage cells, and may play a role in heart disease, cancer and other diseases, according to the National Institutes of Health. Yukon Gold potatoes contain 45 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin C which is an antioxidant vitamin. Not only does vitamin C help the body absorb iron, but it also promotes wound heeling and boosts collagen which is beneficial to bone and skin health.

Fat Free

Dietary saturated fat and cholesterol are contributors to elevated cholesterol levels, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. Yukon Golds do not contain any saturated fat or cholesterol. Keep in mind that the way you prepare your potatoes can change this. If you slice them up and fry them in butter or oil, the fat content will become higher. This especially holds true if you deep fry them.