These nutrients provide several health benefits.
Ana Rocio Garcia Franco/ Getty Images
1.
Nutrient-Rich
The nutritional content of a sweet potato is greater than a white potato.
Ana Rocio Garcia Franco/ Getty Images
Aids Digestion
Research has found that thedietary fiberin sweet potatoes is good for thegut microbiome.
Sweet potatoes have traditionally been used to improvediarrheaand other stomach problems.
Anticancer Benefits
Research has found that sweet potatoes have anticancer benefits.
The antioxidant activity of these compounds can reduce free radical damage to cells.
What Are Free Radicals?
Free radicalsare unstable molecules in the body.
They are made as a normal byproduct of metabolism and exposure to environmental toxins.
Free radicals damage cells and change DNA, increasing the risk of developing cancer.
Supports Eye Health
Polyphenoliccompounds are the most readily accessible form of antioxidant in your diet.
Sweet potatoes contain these substances, which protect eye and retinal health.
Supports Brain Health
Another potential benefit of the antioxidants in sweet potatoes is its effect onmemory.
Further studies are needed to confirm how these results apply to humans.
Promotes Heart Health
The dietary fiber in sweet potatoes is great for your heart.
A healthy diet that includes adequate dietary fiber can reduce the risk ofcardiovascular (heart) disease.
That’s because dietary fiber binds with bile acids, preventing reabsorption in the liver and inhibiting cholesterol formation.
However, researchers claim the studies are low quality and more trials are needed.
Should You Eat Sweet Potatoes if You Have Diabetes?
They are usually fine to enjoy in moderation.
Promotes Healthy Skin
The beta-carotene found in sweet potatoes may promote healthy skin in several ways.
Does Cooking Method Matter?
Boiling and air-frying appear to provide the most nutrients.
Summary
Sweet potatoes are nutrient-rich and an excellent addition to nearly any diet.
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