Sweet potato is a nutritious and tasty root vegetable that is enjoyed by people all around the world. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, and have a number of health benefits.

Vitamins and Minerals found in Sweet Potato

One of the key nutrients found in sweet potatoes is beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A by the body. And as we all know, Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight, as well as for supporting the immune system. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of vitamin C, which is important for maintaining healthy skin, teeth, and bones. It’s also good for the reproductive system and organs like heart and kidneys.

They are rich in B Vitamins, Vitamins C, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Thiamin and Zinc.

How do Sweet Potato get their rich colour?

This amazing food get its rich colour from natural compounds called carotenoids. Carotenoids are also antioxidants, which means they have the power to protect our cells from day-to-day damage.

Health Benefits of having Sweet Potato:

The amount if nutrients they have, it will not be wrong to name it as a “Super food”. There are numerous health benefits of consuming it and also it might help with:

Sweet Potato might prevent Cancer

The antioxidant “carotenoids” present in sweet potatoes might reduce the risk for cancer. They are also rich in another natural compound called anthocyanin that might lower your chances of getting colorectal cancer.

Sweet Potato might help in Diabetes

Sweet potatoes are low on the glycemic index (GI), when boiled and hence they won’t raise your blood sugar as quickly as high-GI foods. Therefore, the compounds in sweet potatoes help control blood sugar.

It might help to cure Heart Disease

There are studies which shows that sweet potatoes might lower LDL, bad cholesterol and therefore help in lowering the odds of heart problems.

It helps in keeping away Obesity

This super food might also keep you away from obesity as it helps lowers inflammation in the body and keep away the fat cells from growing.

It helps in building immunity

Sweet potato is a good source of Vitamin C and as we all know Vitamin C supports the immune system and it also enhances iron absorption in the body.

Tips of Using Sweet Potatoes

• When buying sweet potatoes, it is important to check that the potato is firm with smooth, taut skin.
• Also, always store them in a cool, dry place for no longer than 3–5 weeks. Refrigerate it once it is cooked.
• Like other fruits and vegetables, it is always advised to wash sweet potatoes before using them. 
• It is advised to blanch (immersing in boiling water for a short interval) sweet potatoes to remove toxins probably present on the skin. Blanching also increases the absorption of nutrients.

How to use Sweet Potato?

In addition to their nutritional benefits, sweet potatoes are also versatile in the kitchen. They can be baked, mashed, or roasted, and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, momos, sweet dish and casseroles. They can also be used as a replacement for white potatoes in many recipes, making them a healthy alternative.

You can refer to my Youtube channel for some interesting recipes of Sweet Potato:

Conclusion

Overall, sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet. They can be enjoyed as a tasty side dish or as a main ingredient in a variety of dishes. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and flavourful option, consider adding sweet potatoes to your menu!

Lokah Samastah Sukhino havantu….