Fantastic Reasons to Eat Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a delicious treat that come in many shapes and colors and are widely grown and consumed throughout the world as they are nutritional powerhouses and loaded with essential vitamins and minerals.
1. Sweet potatoes are high in antioxidants
Sweet potatoes are rich in antioxidants. The anthocyanin in the purple sweet potatoes and beta carotene in the orange variety are some antioxidants that are anti-inflammatory and help ward off many diseases.
2. Sweet potatoes are high in manganese
28 percent of your daily requirement of manganese, for metabolism of carbs are found in sweet potatoes. Manganese helps the body absorb other essential nutrients, and it helps keep your bones strong and healthy. Consuming sweet potatoes can help prevent manganese deficiency.
3. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta carotene
One medium sweet potato contains more than 200 percent of your daily requirement of beta carotene. Beta carotene is required by the body to convert into vitamin A, keeping your eyes healthy and boosting your immune system naturally.
4. Sweet potatoes contain quercetin
Rich in quercetin, a major dietary flavonoid helps lower LDL cholesterol and reduce inflammation. Also, it acts as a natural antihistamine that can help combat allergies, and can help people who suffer from seasonal or chronic allergies.
5. Sweet potatoes help control blood sugar
Though rich in carbs, sweet potatoes can help manage blood sugar levels. Since sweet potatoes increase blood levels of adiponectin, they€™re able to modify insulin metabolism that helps control blood sugar levels. Sweet potatoes are also rich in fiber and decrease the release of glucose into the bloodstream and can help prevent blood sugar spikes.
6. Sweet potatoes are good for your heart
Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of potassium and vitamin B6, both essential for your heart. Potassium helps in lowering high blood pressure and vitamin B6 breaks down homocysteine which is responsible for hardening of the arteries and lead to cardiovascular disease. They are also rich in vitamin C and aids in production of collagen for healthy skin and joints. Around 40 percent of your daily requirement of vitamin C is present in a medium sweet potato.
8. Sweet potatoes contain Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for immune system and plays a vital role in your energy levels, helps improve your mood and build healthy bones. Eating sweet potato more often helps you avoid a vitamin D deficiency.
While the above article guides you to eating healthier, there is no substitute for customized professional advice given by a qualified nutritionist. We urge you to speak to your personal dietician or if you need help, contact a nutritionist at Qua Nutrition.
You can contact us at 080 3232 9292 or log on to www.quanutrition.com to Book An Appointment.
