Sweet potatoes are often overlooked and ignored because they have a reputation for being fattening. But nothing can be farther from the truth! In fact, sweet potatoes are lower in calories and carbohydrates than their cousin potato, and hence, the healthier option.
Sweet potato or shakarkandi is highly nutritious and makes for an excellent energy source for your body – though all vegetables are healthy as long as they are not fried. Veggies provide loads of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to your body. Sweet potatoes, especially, are high in fibre, yummy, and very filling.
But the question is, can sweet potatoes really help you to lose weight?
Yes, it’s true! Sweet potatoes do help in managing weight. Fibre is an excellent tool for managing weight, and sweet potatoes are rich in fibre. They contain pectin, which is a soluble dietary fibre, known for releasing satiety hormones in your body. This not only reduces your appetite but also makes you feel full sooner. That’s why as your food intake reduces, so does your weight as well.
The benefits of sweet potatoes don’t stop there! Here are some reasons you need to include this veggie in your diet.
Improves The Quality Of Your Skin And Hair
Want glowing skin and thick, luscious hair? Add sweet potato to your diet. It contains beta-carotene, which nourishes your hair from within. It boosts hair growth and adds a healthy shine to your mane.
As for your skin, sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, both of which make your skin healthy and glowing. Vitamin C boosts collagen production, which tightens the skin. This veggie also contains anthocyanins, which combat the free radicals. This means lesser signs of damage, dark spots and blemishes.
Improves Your Eye Health
Rich in vitamin A, this veggie helps in improving our eyesight. A cup of baked sweet potato provides over seven times the body’s daily requirement of beta-carotene.
Protects Against Cold And Flu
Sweet potatoes are rich in Vitamin C, which helps in preventing coughs, colds, and flu. It also helps in bone, tooth, and blood cell formation.
Minimises The Risk Of Cancer
There is evidence that eating vitamin A-rich veggies, such as sweet potatoes, may protect against lung cancer. This vegetable also contains anthocyanins, which have cancer-fighting properties.
Lowers The Risk Of Cardiovascular Diseases
Sweet potatoes are a rich source of potassium as well. It plays a significant role in controlling your blood pressure. Thus, it also minimizes the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
