Potatoes, Aaloo, Bataata, Aalugadde, Urlakarn...

Potatoes are nutritionally amazing, for everybody and especially for runners. They have close to ZERO fat!!! But according to a doc "...sadly more than 50 percent of those [potatoes] are fried--turning them into a nutritional disaster, which helps account for their bad rap."
In India I would say 100% of the potato preparations are nutritional disasters...
Anyway read on for more awesome facts about Potatoes...

"The potato is a nutritional powerhouse, in addition to being an excellent source of carbohydrate, a potato contains 45 percent of the daily requirement for vitamin C, and more potassium than a banana. If you eat it with the skin on, it's a terrific source of dietary fiber. A fresh potato contains no fat or cholesterol, and has only 100 calories."

"Potassium in potatoes keeps your muscles firing properly, warding off cramps during a tough workout or race. Potassium is a key ingredient in sports drinks. Few foods contain significant amounts of potassium, which is why your coach keeps urging you to eat potassium-rich bananas. One medium-size potato, however, boasts more potassium than a banana."

Baked, mashed, or boiled, potatoes actually provide more energy-delivering complex carbohydrates than a cup of pasta. All varieties--russet, red, yellow, purple, and sweet--contain impressive quantities of vitamins and minerals. Plus, they're easy to digest and prepare. "People often assume that because potatoes are white, they're a nutritionally empty food," says Tara Gidus, R.D., a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. "But the opposite is true."

Potatoes rank high on the glycemic index--higher than pasta--which means their carbs get into the bloodstream fast. Postrun, potatoes replenish carbs quickly, and topped with protein, help repair muscle fibers. Plus, the vitamin A in sweet potatoes aids new cell growth and repairs postworkout microtears in muscle, helping you recover and refuel for your next run.

[Potatoes] A perfect runners' food--just steer clear of the fries.