Whether you like to enjoy them in the form of baked chips, wedges or in casseroles, sweet potatoes are an excellent health food.
They’re an underground tuber that’s referred to in scientific circles as “ipomoea batatas” and it has been consumed by cultures around the world for generations.
- Sweet potatoes contain an antioxidant known as beta-carotene, which is known for boosting vitamin A levels, particularly in children. That’s why it might be a good idea to encourage your child to eat sweet potato chips instead of regular fries next time you eat out.
- Sweet potatoes are relatively low in carbs, containing just 27 grams per medium-sized serving (with the skin on), almost no fat, 1.6% protein and 77% water.
- Consuming sweet potatoes can protect you from developing a vitamin A deficiency.
- Sweet potatoes can also reduce cancer and oxidative damage risk.
- Sweet potatoes are high in antioxidants that help to reduce the risk of developing certain kinds of cancer.
- Most people can tolerate sweet potatoes pretty well without experiencing any allergy symptoms. However, because they contain a high amount of oxalates, sweet potatoes may cause reactions in people that have an existing sensitivity to kidney stone formation.
