The Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are probably my favorite root vegetable. Their naturally occurring sweetness and earthiness coalesce to create a unique flavor that works in a multitude of dishes and even shines on its own. On top of this, sweet potatoes are also a great, healthy addition to any diet.

The high fiber content of sweet potatoes makes them great for digestive health. In addition to high fiber (4 grams per cup), sweet potatoes are a good source of phytosterol, a nutrient found in the cell membranes of plants that has a protective effect on the digestive system and aids in the prevention of ulcers.

The peel of a sweet potato is loaded with antioxidants, which inhibit the oxidation process, protecting your body against free radical damage. So for more nutrient absorption, when eating sweet potatoes, don’t ditch the peel. Just scrub the sweet potato and cook with the peel intact.

Vitamins and minerals found in sweet potatoes include vitamin C, a host of B vitamins, manganese, copper, iron, choline, and potassium. This makes sweet potatoes great for your mind, eyes, and immunity. And one sweet potato typically provides about 35% of your necessary daily intake of Vitamin A.

Sweet potatoes are great for stabilizing blood sugar because of the complex carbohydrates they consist of. Those carbohydrates and the high fiber content keep you feeling full and satisfied long after you have eaten your sweet potatoes.

If you need some inspiration for what to make with this wonderfood, here’s a compilation of my favorite sweet potato recipes. Enjoy!