Lila Lois
Sweet potatoes are not only lovely to the taste buds but boast health benefits too!
It belongs to the tuberous crops family and has a broad variation to choose from, such as; white, red, purple, and yellow.
As it differs in color, so does its texture and flavor. For instance, yellow and white sweet potatoes offer juicier and softer flesh. On the other hand, red dominates in aroma with a lump of more rigid and drier meat.
The distinctive variances imply the vitamin and antioxidants content of the crop. Reds, yellows, and orange-colored ones are rich with beta carotene. Anthocyanin is abundant in the purple assortment.
What are its Nutritional Facts?
It’s an abundant source of:
- Carbohydrates
- Fiber
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Sodium
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Amino acids
- Vitamins, especially vitamin A (beta-carotene)
- Folate
- Zinc
- Iron
- Protein
- Vitamin K
Are there any Health Benefits to Attain?
Would you believe from a cup of sweet potato, you’ll acquire a multitude of health benefits?
Gastrointestinal System’s Health and Functions are Improved!
- A good carbohydrate that’s fiber-rich ensures a healthy and well-functioning digestive system. It’ll prevent constipation, and decreases the risks of gastrointestinal cancers or diseases. Why? Because of its resistant starch, you are feeding the good bacteria in the gut.
Boosts the Immunity
- As an effective antioxidant with vitamins, it has phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese. All of such nutrients builds and strengthens your body’s immunity and helps feed the healthy bacteria in your gut microbiome.
Manages the Issue with Diabetes
- It seems a little odd that it’s a choice food for people who have diabetes. But the truth is that by learning of the glycemic load and glycemic index (https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/sweet-potato-diabetes) of the different varieties, you’ll discover which is best for you.
Keeps the Heart in Good Condition
- As it’s abundant with potassium, it aids with balancing the sodium levels in the body. Thus, maintaining the range of your blood pressure.
- The high-fiber volume lowers the bad cholesterol levels, and helps the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
Assists with Reducing Inflammation
- Anthocyanins and beta-carotene, magnesium, and vitamin C play a big role when it battling inflammations. All of these are present in sweet potato. It’s capable of diminishing the oxidative stress, fights off inflammation and helps protect the body further.
What Recipes Should You Try?
Won’t it be a bit bland to fry or steam it only? Well, there are many recipes you can do with it.
You can roast, grill, make a salad, turn it into mash, bake, and so much more! It’s just a matter of experimentation and discovery. Surely, with a plentiful of health benefits to reap from it, sweet potatoes are definitely worth adding to the meal plan.
