In some homes in the United States, sweet potatoes are only served at Thanksgiving, even though they are available year-round. Too bad. Sweet potatoes are one of the unsung heroes of a balanced diet. For a reasonable number of calories, you get a load of nutrients.
Sweet potatoes contain carotenoids that appear to help stabilize blood sugar levels and lower insulin resistance, making cells more responsive to insulin. This can ultimately help with your metabolism.
 Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene. |
Health Benefits
This starchy vegetable has bulk to keep your tummy full for hours. Yet its nutritional profile makes the calories worth it, especially since they are fat-free. Its fiber alone is enough to make a sweet potato worth eating.
If a beta-carotene contest were held, sweet potatoes would tie carrots for first place. That may make them top-notch for fighting chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease, as well as disease related to inflammation, such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Sweet potatoes are also rich in potassium and vitamin C; a small potato provides almost half the daily allowance.
Nutritional Values for Sweet Potato
Serving Size: 1 potato (3 oz), baked
|
90 | |
|
0 g | |
|
Saturated Fat |
0 g |
|
0 mg | |
|
21 g | |
|
2 g | |
|
3 g | |
|
36 mg | |
|
19,218 IU | |
|
6 micrograms | |
|
1 mg | |
|
Vitamin B6 |
<1 mg |
|
20 mg | |
|
1 mg | |
|
38 mg | |
|
Manganese |
1 mg |
|
11,552 mcg | |
|
475 mg | |
|
27 mg |
Want more information about sweet potatoes? Try:
- Grilling Sweet Potatoes: Learn how to enjoy sweet potatoes cooked on your grill.
- Vegetable Recipes: Find delicious recipes that feature sweet potatoes.
- Vegetable Gardens: Grow a full harvest of great vegetables this year.
- Gardening: We answer your questions about all things that come from the garden.
- Nutrition: Get the most out of your food with these nutrition tips.
