Health benefits of sweet potatoes: Keeps heart healthy, controls blood sugar, nourishes skin

Health benefits of sweet potato: Rich in potassium, sweet potatoes help in regulating blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk (Image: Canva)

A radiant root, a nutritious bite. Sweet potato, is nature's golden delight!

Poetry aside, the truth is sweet potatoes are rich in essential vitamins and fibre and are good for your skin, heart and overall health. Whether you eat them baked, mashed or fried, these sweet tubers bring an array of benefits for your body. Studies reveal that they are rich in macronutrients like starch, fibre, and protein, as well as a long list of micronutrients including minerals (manganese, copper, potassium, iron), vitamins (B complex, C, E), and provitamin A (as carotenoids). Purple sweet potatoes contain anthocyanins, and they also contain flavonoids and coumarins. Compared to other root and tuber crops, sweet potatoes offer higher levels of carbohydrates, proteins, pro-vitamin A, vitamin C, and minerals than wheat or rice.

Here are some of the benefits of regularly consuming sweet potatoes:

Digestive wellness:

Fibre-packed digestion: Sweet potatoes are a fibre-rich food that promotes regular bowel movements and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

Cardiovascular Health:

Heart-friendly nutrients: With complex carbohydrates, low-fat content, and dietary fibre, sweet potatoes reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Blood pressure regulation: Sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, aiding in blood pressure regulation and reducing heart disease risk.

Immune support:

Nutritional powerhouse: Sweet potatoes, packed with vitamins A and C, bolster the immune system, aiding in the fight against infections.

Packed with antioxidants: Their high vitamin C and antioxidant content help neutralise pathogens and enhance immune response.

Skin vitality:

UV protection: Sweet potatoes, abundant in beta-carotene, protect the skin from UV damage and premature aging.

Collagen and cell health: Beta-carotene's conversion into vitamin A promotes collagen production and enhances overall skin health.

Cognitive function:

Brain shield: Anthocyanins found in sweet potatoes reduce inflammation and shield against free radical damage, benefiting cognitive health.

Steady brain fuel: Complex carbohydrates in sweet potatoes provide a sustained energy source, supporting focus and mental alertness.

Memory and vision: Vitamin A in sweet potatoes enhances memory and cognitive well-being while also supporting vision.

Blood sugar management:

Natural regulator: Sweet potatoes' fibre content slows sugar absorption into the bloodstream.

Understanding GI: Orange sweet potatoes have a higher glycemic index (GI), causing a relatively quicker blood sugar increase.

Diabetic-friendly: Despite the GI difference, sweet potatoes can be a valuable addition for diabetics when prepared by boiling or steaming for a gentler glycemic response.