6 Reasons to Eat More Sweet Potatoes

6 Reasons to Eat Sweet Potatoes

Sweet Potatoes are one of the most popular foods in our house ~ they can literally do ANYTHING. They can be baked, roasted, made into Muffins, Soups, and even Biscuits…

They are commonly labeled as Yams (what’s the difference?) and are a great item to keep in your house as an addition to your diet.

Compared to the regular potato, they far exceed the benefits in terms of nutrition. We use them plenty around our house – in fact, they are a pantry staple. They can literally “make” dinner in a matter of minutes.

So WHY do you want to incorporate more Sweet Potatoes into your diet?

#1 – Fiber

Sweet Potatoes have twice as much fiber as other potatoes – as much as 7 grams per serving. They are a great addition to a meal. Since they are high fiber, they have a slow burning quality – which essentially means that their energy is used slowly and more effectively than a low fiber carb.

#2 – Beta Carotene

Beta Carotene (vitamin A) is a rich antioxidant – one medium sweet potato gives you your daily allowance of vitamin A + additional. Beta carotene protects your skin from sun damage by repairing your cells from UV exposure. It’s great for supporting eye health, vision loss and in the prevention of cancer (as a nutrient-rich, antioxidant).

#3 – Vitamin C and E

Vitamins C and E are important to keep healthy skin and hair – if you eat vegetables rich in Vitamin C and E, you will help with disease prevention and increase your longevity. Of course, any time you can eat food rich in these vitamins it’s far greater than taking any type of supplement.

#4 – Magnesium

Sweet Potatoes are rich in Magnesium – which is the mineral for relaxation and great for fighting stress. Approximately 80% of Americans may be deficient in Magnesium… you can read more about Magnesium deficiency here.

#5 – Vitamin B6

Sweet Potatoes are VERY high in Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps break down homocysteine – which contributes to the hardening of your arteries and blood vessels allowing for heart issues. Eat Sweet Potatoes regularly and you will keep those walls open and blood can flow more freely.

#6 – Potassium

Potassium helps lower your blood pressure by getting rid of too much sodium and fluid in your body. Eat plenty of Sweet Potatoes and your body will be rich in potassium helping support a healthy heart, brain and nervous system.

8 Sweet Potato Recipes