Sweet potato is a dicotyledonous plant. It is a large, starchy, sweet-tasting, tuberous root vegetable. It is a nutritional vegetable. It contains a high amount of fibre and potassium. They have the more grams of natural sugar with fewer calories. Incorporating sweet potato in your diet has a numerous health benefits.
Diabetes : They are considered low on the Glycemic Index and recent research suggests that they may reduce the episodes of low blood sugar and insulin resistance in diabetics. The fibre in the sweet potatoes is also important. Studies shows that consuming sweet potato can reduce the risk of developing Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.
Cancer: A diet rich in beta carotene sources like sweet potato helps reduce the risk of prostate and colon cancer.
Fertility: The vitamin A in the sweet potatoes (consumed as beta carotene which is converted to vitamin A in the body) is also essential for hormone synthesis during pregnancy and lactation.
Inflammation: Choline present in the sweet potato is a very important and versatile nutrient. It helps in regulating sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces the risk of chronic inflammation also it helps in reducing the free radical formation in the body.
Vision: Vitamin A deficiency can damage vision. The cornea can become dry, leading to clouding in the front of eye. Correcting vitamin A deficiencies with foods high in beta carotene can restore vision. Also the antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin E in sweet potatoes have been shown to support eye health and prevent degenerative damage. Eating sweet potato thrice a day has been shown to decrease the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Immunity: The numerous nutrients offer an immunity boost. Digestion and regularity: Because of its high fibre content, sweet potatoes help to prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract.
TIPS: Avoid buying sweet potatoes with soft skin or wrinkles, cracks, or soft spots. Store in a cool, dry place for up to three to five weeks.
Divya Purushotham
sanonutritionclinic
The writer is founder and chief nutritionist at Sano Holistic Nutrition Clinic