Sweet potatoes aren’t just delicious. They also offer many health benefits. If you’re looking for a healthy and versatile vegetable to add to your diet, you need to take a closer look at sweet potatoes next time you’re at the organic food market. Some health benefits of sweet potato include:
They Contain Important Vitamins
Sweet potatoes are rich in both vitamin A and vitamin C. One cup of sweet potato fulfills half of your daily vitamin C needs and 400% of your daily vitamin A needs! These vitamins help boost your immune system, keep your skin healthy, and help with your vision as well. A delicious vegetable that’s such a good source of these vitamins should be a staple in your diet.
They Fight Inflammation
Inflammation is a factor in many types of diseases, like type 2 diabetes and cancer. The anti-inflammatory compounds found in sweet potatoes can reduce inflammation and help you fight back against the disease.
They’re Good for Blood Pressure
Sweet potatoes also contain potassium, a mineral that can help you lower blood pressure, regulate heart rhythm, and remove excess fluid from the body. Many people do not get their daily recommended amount of potassium, but adding more sweet potatoes to your diet can help you hit that target.
Sweet Potatoes Are Rich in Other Vitamins and Minerals
It’s not just vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. Sweet potatoes contain so many other nutrients and antioxidants that are key to a healthier diet and lifestyle. Sweet potatoes also contain B vitamins, calcium, iron, magnesium, and more. All of these nutrients can help you fight disease and stay healthier. The beta carotene found in sweet potatoes can even help you protect your sight!
They’re High in Fiber
Fiber has numerous dietary benefits, but the high fiber found in sweet potatoes has another benefit. Even though sweet potatoes live up to their name and have a pleasing sweet flavor, they do not cause blood sugar and insulin spikes. Their high fiber content ensures that they break down slowly and won’t make you “crash” later.
They Can Boost Brain Function
Feeling a bit foggy? The anthocyanins found in sweet potatoes could help fight inflammation and improve memory. More studies need to be done, but some of these compounds could even help fight mental decline and dementia.
They’re Good for Weight Loss
That high fiber content also makes sweet potatoes filling, so you won’t be looking for snacks after a meal that contains sweet potatoes. If you’re going to consume carbohydrates, this is a healthier type to have.
There Are Many Ways to Eat Them
One of the best things about sweet potatoes is that there are so many ways to prepare them and eat them. No matter what kind of dietary preferences you have, you’re going to find something to like whether the sweet potatoes are roasted, mashed, or made into fries. They’re great for kids too since even picky eaters can find a sweet potato delicious in some form.
For More Healthy Eating Tips
If you want to learn more about organic food dishes and how you can eat healthier, visit the Organic Restaurants blog. We can help you figure out some new healthy options and reap the health benefits.