We explain whether and why sweet potatoes are healthy. The tuber has been treated as a superfood for some time - here you can find out whether the hype is justified.
These ingredients make the sweet potato healthy
Sweet potatoes contain little fat and many minerals and vitamins that make the vegetable very healthy:
- The content of beta-carotene is nearly as high as that in carrots and has a positive effect on vision. Beta-carotene is converted in the body into vitamin A, which protects our cells and strengthens the immune system.
- 100 grams of sweet potatoes contain 3 grams of dietary fiber, which ensures that sweet potatoes keep you full longer than conventional potatoes.
- The tubers also contain abundant fat-soluble vitamin E, which provides firm skin and protects cells from premature aging.
- Potassium regulates fluid balance in the body and can reduce excessive blood pressure and prevent the development of heart attacks.
- Due to the antioxidants they contain, sweet potatoes are healthy because they have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Are sweet potatoes healthier than potatoes?
This question cannot be answered in a blanket way, as the tubers have different advantages and disadvantages. Sweet potatoes contain more carbohydrates and sugar than conventional potatoes, which also explains their sweet taste. Therefore, the orange tubers are not suitable for a low-carb diet. The glycemic index of sweet potatoes, on the other hand, is lower, so blood sugar levels do not rise as quickly after eating sweet potatoes.
In terms of calories, protein, and fat, potatoes and sweet potatoes are relatively equal. The potato contains more starch and folic acid, among other things, while the sweet potato may have higher levels of vitamins C and E. Prussic acid is also found in some sweet potato varieties, but the amount is safe for adult humans if the sweet potatoes are heated. The secondary plant substance caiapo is found in the skin of the batata and is said to have a positive effect on anemia and diabetes.
Sweet potato: origin and season
Sweet potatoes have been cultivated for over 4,000 years and originated in Central and South America. Today, however, the largest producer is China, followed by African countries such as Nigeria and Tanzania. The sweet potato's carbon footprint is therefore usually rather poor: The product has to be transported a long way before it ends up in our supermarkets. However, there are also European countries where sweet potatoes are grown, such as Spain, Portugal, and Italy.