Simple, sweet as its name suggests, but also super healthy, the sweet potato is high on the list of “10 foods beneficial to our health” established by the Mayo Clinic, a famous American organization (non-profit) which focuses on human health. Originally from South America and grown in the West Indies, this plump, colorful potato is not part of the potato family, even if appearances are deceiving, but it is superior in many ways.
Focus on antioxidant pigments
The beautiful color of the sweet potato is the sign of a high content of antioxidant pigments: it is one of the vegetables that contain the most, particularly anthocyanins (as in the pomegranate), especially when its flesh is rather red or purple, and carotenoids (in particular beta-carotene, precursor of vitamin A) when its flesh is very orange. Two “champions” whose anti-free radical action protects the body from aging and associated diseases, such as osteoporosis, age-related cognitive disorders, but also cardiovascular illnesses, because these pigments would decrease the oxidation of the bad cholesterol, a real risk factor. In sub-Saharan Africa, even a small amount of sweet potato consumption has been shown to protect toddlers from vitamin A deficiency that causes xerophthalmia (an eye disease). She is, moreover, nicknamed “the protector of children”. Several studies have also attributed protective effects against gallbladder cancer, of the prostate and breast. The purple sweet potato, on the other hand, would reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
A favorable glycemic index
Big advantage of the beautiful orange, despite its sweet flavor (children love it), it is low in calories and, moreover, has a glycemic index low, unlike our classic “potato”: 46 when cooked, much like green lentils or wholemeal bread. Which makes her an ally of choice to monitor her figure but also for diabetics, in which it will not cause a glycemic spike. Especially since it also contains calcium(essential for the bone system) and zinc which participates in particular in immunity by intervening in the production of white blood cells and antibodies: many women also lack this precious mineral, especially after menopause. Finally, the potato is a good source of vitamin B2, B5 and B6 (involved in nervous balance) and a potassium ration far from negligible, the latter participating in the regulation of blood pressure, the control of insulin secretion, nerve transmission and muscle impulse.
Try the leaves!
While potato leaves are poisonous, sweet potato leaves are perfectly edible (like spinach) and above all, very rich! They contain, among other things, precious anthocyanins that would protect and soften the walls of blood vessels, especially those of the aorta.
His CV
86.3 Cal/100g (from raw sweet potato) • Fat 0.15g • Carbohydrates 18.3g • Protein 1.51g • Fiber 2.87g
Read also:
- The sweet potato is all good!
- Sweet potato, anti-craving and antioxidant