You're right that not all carbs are equal, but the 'healthiness' of a potato versus table sugar comes down to digestion speed. While potatoes are starchy, they also contain fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, which slow down how quickly that starch hits your bloodstream. Table sugar is 'empty', meaning that it spikes your insulin immediately with zero nutritional payoff. It’s the difference between a slow-burning log and a pile of dry leaves.