Sweet potatoes are underground tubers that are excellent sources of beta carotene, as well as many other vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds.
This root vegetable may have several health benefits, such as improved blood sugar regulation and vitamin A levels.
According to Healthline“, Sweet potatoes are a good source of fiber, potassium, vitamins, and other essential nutrients.
There are various possible health benefits of sweet potatoes, such as improving digestion and reducing inflammation.
Some people use the terms “sweet potato” and “yam” interchangeably.
However, they are not related. Yams have a drier texture and a more starchy content than sweet potatoes. However, here are the health benefits of sweet potatoes to the body.
1. Reducing the risk of cancer
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene. This is a plant pigment that acts as a powerful antioxidant in the body.
Beta-carotene is also a provitamin. The body converts it into the active form of vitamin A. Antioxidants may help reduce the risk of various types of cancer, including prostate and lung cancer.
2. Protecting eye health
As mentioned above, sweet potatoes are a good source of provitamin A in the form of beta-carotene.
After the age of 18, the Dietary Guidelines recommend an intake of 700 mg of vitamin A per day for women and 900 mg per day for men. Vitamin A is important for protecting eye health.
According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, a baked sweet potato in its skin will provide around 1,403 mcg of vitamin A or 561% of a person’s daily requirement.