6 Reasons Nutritionists Say You Should Eat More Sweet Potatoes
Eating more sweet potatoes will provide you with a substantial dose of nutrients and provide you with numerous health benefits. Not only do they have a low calorie content, but they can also help strengthen your immune system amongst many other health benefits. The most enthralling fact about sweet potatoes may, however, be that even their leaves are fit for consumption!
Yes, sweet potato leaves are edible! They are commonly used in Asian cuisine as leafy vegetables for salads and other vegetable dishes. Their taste is commonly likened to that of spinach and they are credited with numerous health benefits of their own.
Like their tubers, sweet potato leaves contain beta-carotene, and so possess cell-protecting antioxidant properties. They are a rich source of Vitamins A, K, B1, 2, 3 & 6, all of which are an essential part of the daily diet.
On the other hand, the tubers of sweet potatoes are highly regarded as a hearty addition to any meal because they're very filling and can be very satisfactory. Whether you boil, roast or fry sweet potatoes, you are sure to enjoy the meal thanks to their natural sweetness.
But what makes them even better is their nutritional value and health benefits. Here are some of them:
1. They are rich in antioxidants
Sweet potatoes can contain beta-carotene or anthocyanins based on the colour of their skin. These substances are both antioxidants which can help prevent oxidative damage.
2. They're beneficial to eye health
Sweet potatoes can help maintain healthy vision because they contain high amounts of vitamins and antioxidants that protect against cell damage to the eyes.
3. They can help you lose weight
Sweet potatoes have a relatively high carb content because they pack on a lot of vitamins and minerals. Even better, they contain low amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol, making them an excellent choice for a weight loss diet.
4. They promote healthy immune system
Beta-carotene contained in potatoes are converted into vitamin A, which is not only beneficial to your eye health but also essential to maintaining a healthy immune system.
5. They are good for digestion
Sweet poatyoes contain high amounts of dietary fiber, which helps you digest your meals easily and promotes satisfaction, making you eat lesser amounts of food.
6. They promote brain health
Sweet potatoes are indeed superfoods as they contain anthocyanins, which also help protect the brain, and other important organs, from cell damage. So, for better learning and memory eat more sweet potatoes!
