Health Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes

Due to the sudden wave of health consciousness sweeping the world, sweet potatoes have dethroned and replaced white potatoes as a healthier alternative. Sweet potatoes have traditionally been hailed as being more nutrient rich and having a lower glycemic index than their white counterparts, as well as having more fiber and Vitamin A. A great source for minerals such as iron, folate, copper and manganese, they also pack a whopping amount of vitamins such as C, B2, B6, D, E and Biotin, thereby boosting immunity. At a time when even the word "carbs" is taboo, sweet potatoes have made themselves indispensable to health conscious dieters due to the following nutritional benefits:

Cancer Prevention
The dark coloured variety of sweet potatoes is an excellent source of carotenoids like beta carotene and Vitamin A, the highest among root-vegetable categories. Consumption of food rich in carotenoids provide protection against lung and oral cancers. Studies conducted on more than 124,000 people in Harvard University showed a 32 percent reduction in risk of lung cancer of individuals who consumed an array of carotenoid-rich foods as part of their everyday diet.

Controls Blood Sugar
According to the American Diabetes Association, the glycemic index measures how quickly the blood sugar levels rise after eating. Foods that have low glycemic index do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar level, which usually results in cravings and binge eating. Therefore, sweet potatoes are the perfect choice of carbohydrates for individuals suffering from blood sugar problems as it regulates blood sugar and prevents insulin resistance.

Skin Care and Anti-Aging Properties
Sweet potatoes are high in carotenoids (precursor of Vitamin A) like beta carotene, which strengthen eyesight and boost the immune system. Many high-end skin care products contain retinol and retinoic acid which are derived from Vitamin A. Moreover, beta carotene combats the free radicals which cause skin ageing. Vitamin C, present abundantly in sweet potatoes produces collagen which helps maintain the skin's youthful elasticity.

Prevent Heart Attacks
Sweet potatoes are a rich source of Vitamin B6 which reduces the chemical homocysteine, which leads to prevention of heart attacks. Potassium also stabilizes blood pressure and regulates heart function by maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. Therefore, due to high potassium content, sweet potatoes can help prevent the onset of heart attack and stroke.

Stress Relief
Sweet potatoes have high potassium content, and since the body uses a large amount of potassium and other minerals during times of stress, sweet potatoes can be used as an effective food to combat stress. It is also beneficial in alleviating muscle cramps, which might occur due to potassium deficiency. Sweet potatoes are a good source of Iron, which provides energy and stress resistance, as well as the proper functioning of the immune system. Magnesium, also found in sweet potatoes, helps in relaxation.