Savory and sweet, sweet potatoes are extraordinarily nutritious and offer a wide array of disease-preventing health benefits. Low in fat, but also rich in vitamin E, sweet potatoes should be a staple of a healthy diet. And sweet potatoes aren’t just healthy-they also taste great!
The orange flesh of sweet potatoes is right up there with the best carotene-rich foods like carrots and pumpkins. The antioxidants contained in sweet potatoes are linked to reduced risks for diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease. They are also linked to a diminished risk for developing cataracts. Carotenoids can also support the healthy function of both the immune system and the reproductive system of the body. The antioxidant protection of carotenoids is even linked to a slower process of aging. Sweet potatoes are particularly rich in the carotenoid beta-carotene.
The color pigments in sweet potatoes, like anthocyanin, offer anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is linked to many health problems, so reducing its incidence through diet is a powerful weapon against diseases like arthritis and some cancers. New research is continuing to shed light on sweet potatoes and their anti-inflammatory health benefits.
Of all the low-fat foods, sweet potatoes are the richest source of vitamin E. Research suggests that vitamin E supports a healthy heart, skin, and even male fertility. Sweet potatoes are also a valuable source of potassium. People suffering from high blood pressure can benefit from added potassium in their diet since it is known to help regulate blood pressure. Moreover, the iron contained in sweet potatoes can help people ward off infection.
Sweet Potatoes Can Help To Regulate Your Blood Sugar
Additionally, consuming sweet potatoes is a well-known way to regulate blood sugar levels. Even people suffering from type 2 diabetes have seen improvement in blood sugar levels after adding sweet potatoes to their diet. More research in this area is being conducted, but sweet potatoes have already shown that they may help people suffering from diabetes.
Since sweet potatoes are also a good source for dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese, they are a nutritious food that can be enjoyed in many ways. They come in several varieties and may contain orange, white, pink, or even purple flesh. While this root vegetable looks like a potato, it isn’t in the same family. However, they are a great alternative to potatoes since they contain so many health benefits.
Sweet potatoes are widely available at markets and grocery stores. Choose sweet potatoes that are firm and boast smooth skin. It is best to store them in a cool, dark spot with good air circulation; they should remain fresh for roughly ten days when stored this way. Many people simply store them in the vegetable drawer of their refrigerator. On the other hand, cold temperatures can alter the quality of sweet potatoes’ taste.
Dietary experts recommend boiling sweet potatoes, but steaming is also a nutritious (and delicious) method of cooking. Of course, sweet potatoes are also baked and roasted. They even make great additions to stir fry meals. Moreover, many restaurants are replacing regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for their french fries. With so many health benefits, it’s important to eat sweet potatoes on a regular basis; don’t just save them for the holidays!
