Sweet potatoes are a rich source of both vitamin C and vitamin B6, both required for the healthy functioning of the nervous system and the brain, respectively, and can be found in high quantities in sweet potatoes. These meals contain potassium and magnesium, both of which are beneficial to heart health and the prevention of heart disease by assisting in regulating blood pressure. Plant-based fiber is found in small amounts in sweet potatoes and is good for people who want to maintain a healthy weight while decreasing their risk of acquiring chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.
Sweet Potato Health Advantages
There are sweet potatoes produced worldwide because of their sweetness and starch. A variety of sizes and colors are available; they are high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and low in calories; they also come in a variety of hues. Furthermore, many health benefits are associated with them, and they’re simple to add to your diet.
- Very nutritive
Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. 200 grams (1 cup) baked sweet potato with skin.
180 Cal; 41.4 g carb
4 g protein/serving
0.3 g total fat
6.6 g dietary fiber
Vitamin A (769 percent DV)
65% DV for Vitamin C (DV)
Manganese makes up half the (DV).
Vitamin B6 offers 29% (DV).
Potassium is 27% (DV).
Pantothenic acid is 18% of the daily value.
Copper is 16% of the (DV).
Niacin: 15% (DV)
- Enhance gut health
Helps with digestive health thanks to its high fiber and antioxidant content. Sweet potatoes contain both soluble and insoluble fibers. Both can’t be consumed. As a result, fiber can remain in your digestive system and aid your overall health. SCFAs are formed when bacteria break down soluble and insoluble fibers in your colon. Viscous fibers soften stool by absorbing water and making it easier to urinate. Fibers that aren’t vicious or soluble don’t absorb water or gain mass. Regular bowel movements and a lower risk of colon cancer have been linked to 20–33 grams per day fiber intake. Sweet potato antioxidants may also be beneficial to the digestive system.
- Cancer-fighting activities that could be undertaken
The antioxidant properties of sweet potatoes may be beneficial in the battle against cancer. A compound present in purple sweet potatoes called anthocyanins, a form of antioxidant that has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells when grown in vitro. In mice, the anthocyanins found in purple sweet potatoes were protective against early-stage colon cancer. In test tubes, extracts of orange sweet potatoes and peels of sweet potatoes exhibited anti-cancer activity.
- Enhance healthy vision
Vitamin beta-carotene is what gives sweet potatoes their bright orange color. Cooked orange sweet potatoes with peel contain around seven times the daily need for beta-carotene in one cup (or 200 grams). Vitamin A is made from beta-carotene, which the eyes need to sense light. Blindness caused by severe vitamin A deficiency is common in poor nations. Xerophthalmia Consuming orange-fleshed sweet potatoes rich in beta-carotene may help prevent this syndrome. There is some evidence that purple sweet potatoes are good for the eyes.
- Potential to boost brain activity
Purple sweet potatoes can likely aid in your ability to think more clearly and coherently. According to researchers, purple sweet potatoes have been shown in animal studies to help reduce inflammation and free radical damage to the brain. It has been demonstrated that a sweet potato extract high in anthocyanins can increase rats’ learning and memory. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants has been linked to a 13% lower incidence of mental decline and dementia.
