Proper and balanced nutrition is one of the most important elements of optimal health and wellness. One excellent source of nutrients that will help you in achieving your health and fitness goals is sweet potato. Here are some things that you should know about it!
Sweet potatoes are not only perfect for holiday feasts, but it may be consumed all year round! It is an excellent source of beneficial nutrients thus it is smart to include it as part of your meals all year round.
A growing body of research reveals that sweet potatoes contain high levels of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and disease-fighting compounds.
Nutritional Value of Sweet Potatoes
- Antioxidants
Orange sweet potatoes contain a carotenoid called beta-carotene. Carotenoids are organic pigments that give sweet potatoes its vibrant orange appearance.
Beta-carotene also functions as an antioxidant that fights free radicals that kill cells through oxidative process- an activity that speeds up aging and make people more prone to chronic diseases. In addition, beta-carotene is an antioxidant that helps in enhancing immune system functioning.
Lastly, it helps in reducing risk of heart disease and cancer development.
Consumption of sweet potatoes has been proven to improve skin health too. It is rich in Vitamin A, a nutrient that boasts potent anti-inflammatory qualities that help in killing bacteria that cause acne and breakouts.
- Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 functions to reduce the amount of homocysteine in our system. This chemical has been linked to the development of chronic, degenerative diseases including stroke and heart attack.
- Vitamin C
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin C that helps in reducing the risk of catching cold, flu, and other disease-causing microorganisms. Although not common knowledge, Vitamin C plays an important role in tooth and born formation and other equally-crucial processes such as collagen production, digestion, and blood cell creation.
In addition, Vitamin C is a crucial component when it comes to re-establishing the skin’s integrity and elasticity. High levels of Vitamin C in our system assist in coping with stress.
- Potassium
Potassium is a crucial electrolyte that helps in controlling nerve signals and heartbeat. Just like any other electrolyte, potassium is important due to its important role in numerous major body functions such as reduction of swelling and inflammation, relaxation of muscle contractions, and regulate kidney activity and process.
- Magnesium
Magnesium is popularly known to battle stress and promote relaxation. It is a crucial nutrient as it promotes healthy arteries, blood, bone, heart, and muscle function just to name a few. Unfortunately, almost 80% of the US population suffers from magnesium deficiency.
- Iron
Sweet potatoes contain iron that helps in generating energy. In addition, it plays a crucial role in the production of blood cell components, fights stress, and enhances immune system functioning.
- Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a nutrient that plays an important role in keeping the immune system function at its optimum day in and day out. Vitamin D plays the role of a nutrient and a hormone. It can be sourced from exposure to sunlight. A condition called seasonal affective disorder is rampant among people who do not receive enough sunlight, resulting in Vitamin D deficiency.
Other Health Benefits from Sweet Potatoes
- Sweet potatoes boast natural sugars that slowly seep into the bloodstream. This process ensures regular source of energy by the body whilst avoiding blood sugar spikes leading to weight gain and fatigue.
- Sweet potatoes contain compounds that reduce cancer risk. In addition, its high carotenoids concentration prevents the development of premature aging signs.
