Healing Night Routine: Potato Starch

Understanding Resistant Starch for Better Health Grades 7-12 Coach Gardner

Learning Goals - I Can Statements

I can explain how potato starch may help my body repair at night I can describe what resistant starch does in my digestive system I can analyze health claims using evidence and science I can evaluate the benefits of adding potato starch to my diet

Key Vocabulary

Resistant Starch - special fiber that feeds good gut bacteria Digestive Health - how well your stomach and intestines work Body Repair - how your body fixes itself while you sleep Gut Microbiome - helpful bacteria living in your intestines

What is Potato Starch?

{"left":"White powder made from potatoes\nNo taste or smell\nMix with cold water\nTake before bedtime","right":"Special type called resistant starch\nFeeds good bacteria in your gut\nDifferent from regular starch\nBody cannot digest it easily"}

How Your Digestive System Work While You Sleep

While you sleep, your digestive system slows down but remains active, focusing on repairing the gut lining, processing remaining nutrients, and allowing the intestines to cleanse themselves. Digestion is slower, making it important to avoid eating 2-3 hours before bed to prevent heartburn, as the body is resting, not actively processing large meals.

How Resistant Starch Works in Your Body

Discussion Question

Based on what we've learned, why might taking potato starch before bed be helpful for your body? Think about: • When does your body do most of its repair work? • How might feeding good bacteria help this process?