And now I am vindicated by ChatGPT.

The question was if I were going through food shortage but needed to keep healthy, and an apple had 100cal but a potato had a higher calorie count since it was “all starch with no other nutritional value”, which would I choose as the health-sustaining choice? I reasoned that in my original homeland, and in the history of Ireland, people sought rice or potatoes for life-sustaining famine food. There was no mention of fruit.

The Chinese ate mostly rice when they could and added salt to it as they carried a fist-sized sack of salt wherever they were fleeing toward The Irish died in droves during the British-induced potato famine. My nine year old brain decided based on historical facts and firsthand anecdotes, potatoes are more useful than apples.

That and the fact that most questions were biased to the “true Canadian child” (ie. culturally sensitive only to real Canadians,) made me puzzled at how to answer the socially sensitive questions, so, true to form, I just filled the rest randomly hoping some would be right by chance. Time was ticking. And I was not sufficiently acculturated.

And ChatGPT’s version? Here goes (Inhale):

In a famine situation—where you’re paying the same for either an apple or a potato—the potato is more worth eating for survival. Here’s why:

✅ Potato: The better famine food

Calories: Potatoes have more calories per gram than apples (around 77 kcal per 100g vs. 52 kcal for apples), meaning they give you more energy and staying power. Satiety: They’re more filling, which matters when food is scarce. Macronutrients: Potatoes offer more complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, some protein, and essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and even some vitamin C. Versatility: You can boil, bake, fry, mash, or even ferment them. Shelf life: Potatoes store better in cool, dark conditions than apples, which rot faster.

⚠️ Apple: Still helpful, but limited

High in water and sugar, good for quick hydration or a short-term energy boost. Contains vitamin C and some fiber, but not as substantial in macronutrients or calories. Perishable, especially without refrigeration.

Verdict:

Choose the potato — it sustains you longer, stores better, and gives more for your money in a famine.

Would you like a list of other high-survival foods too?

Yes

Here’s a compact list of high-survival foods — ones that give you the most calories, nutrients, satiety, and shelf life per unit cost or effort. These are ideal in famine, crisis, or extreme poverty conditions.

🍠 Starch-Based Staples (Energy & Satiety)

Potatoes – Affordable, filling, good carbs, Vitamin C, potassium Sweet potatoes – More fiber & Vitamin A than white potatoes Rice (especially brown) – Long shelf life, calorie-dense Oats – High in fiber, iron, slow energy release Lentils – Protein + carbs + iron; store dry for years Beans (dried) – High in protein, fiber, and minerals Pasta – Easy to store and cook, energy-dense

🥜 Fat & Protein-Rich Foods (Long-Term Energy & Body Repair)

Peanut butter – High calories, protein, healthy fat, shelf-stable Sunflower seeds / Pumpkin seeds – Nutrient-dense, portable Canned fish (sardines, salmon) – Protein, omega-3s, calcium Eggs – Compact, versatile protein source (shorter shelf life raw, but excellent if you have chickens)

🍎 Vital Vitamins & Antioxidants (Prevent disease)

Cabbage – Stores well, rich in Vitamin C & K Carrots – Keep for weeks; Vitamin A, fiber Onions & garlic – Store well, flavor + antibacterial properties Apples (fresh or dried) – Longish shelf life, fiber, sugar Dried fruits (raisins, apricots, dates) – Energy & minerals Sprouting seeds – Grow fresh greens indoors (alfalfa, mung)

🧂 Essential Extras

Salt – Vital for electrolytes & food preservation Cooking oil (canola, olive, or coconut) – Dense calories Honey – Antibacterial, stores indefinitely, high energy Vinegar – Preserves food, aids digestion

🔥 Bonus Tip:

If you’re ever forced to survive for a long period:

Sprouting lentils or beans gives you fresh nutrients. Boiling bones (if you have access) = nutrient-rich broth. Mixing grains + legumes = complete protein.

———-by ChatGPT———-

The teacher didn’t believe I was really getting below 100pts on my IQ test and retested me. I think the same results happened. She then, despite how incongruous the act would be based on my test results, invited me to the book club reserved for high achievers.

Looking back, I laugh. I have come so far simply by being as genuine as I possibly could be. No giving up. No shortcuts. When you don’t know something, research before saying anything. (Deep thanks to Uttley for his hints on that character flaw of mine.)

I know what I am and what I’m worth. I know that I am enough but my learning more never stops. I also know whatever others reject in me is their loss. No regrets. Move on. (Exhale.) Seeya!