One of the most nutritious “SUPERFOODS” around also happens to be one of the most famous “comfort foods” – SWEET POTATOES. Sweet potatoes are a versatile and delicious vegetable that offers a myriad of health benefits. Sweet potatoes have anti-inflammatory properties, contain a multitude of nutrients, and are rich in natural fiber, calcium, and antioxidants. Here are 9 of the most potent health benefits of the “ALRIGHT superfood,” SWEET POTATOES:
- Sweet potatoes have anti-inflammatory properties
Because of their anti-inflammatory properties, sweet potatoes can have a positive effect on conditions like arthritis, asthma, and even allergies.
- Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 helps to reduce the chemical homocysteine in our bodies. Homocysteine has been linked with a number of degenerative diseases, including heart attacks.
- Sweet potatoes are a good source of Vitamin C
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in bone and tooth formation, digestion and blood cell formation. Vitamin C helps accelerate wound health, produces collagen, which can help to maintain the skin’s youthful elasticity, and is essential to helping us cope with stress. It has also been shown to protect the body against toxins that may be linked to cancer.
- Sweet potatoes are a good source of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for immune system health and the overall health of our bodies. Vitamin D plays a critical role in maintaining our energy levels and mood, helps to build healthy bones and teeth, and supports the thyroid gland.
- Sweet potatoes contain iron
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of iron. Most people are aware that we need the mineral iron to have adequate energy, but iron has a number of other functions within the body, including red and white blood cell production, assisting with immune function, and metabolizing protein.
- Sweet potatoes are a good source of mag nesium
Magnesium is necessary for healthy artery, blood, bone, heart, muscle, and nerve function, yet experts estimate that approximately 80 percent of the popula tion in North America may be deficient in this important mineral. Magnesium has also been shown to reduce stress and increase relaxation.
- Sweet potatoes are a good source of potassium
Potassium plays a critical role in the regulation of your heartbeat and nerve signals. Like other electrolytes in the body, potassium performs many essential functions, and contributes to the reduction of swelling and the protection of the kidneys.
- Sweet potatoes do not cause blood sugar spikes
Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet tasting but their natural sugars are slowly released into the bloodstream, helping to ensure a balanced and regular source of energy. Sweet potatoes are also very filling, and can help to prevent overindulgence at mealtime.
- Sweet potatoes help ward off cancer and protect against the effects of aging
The rich orange color of sweet potatoes indicates that they are high in carotenoids like beta-carotene. Carotenoids help strengthen our eyesight and boost our immune system. They are powerful antioxidants that can help ward of cancer and prevent the devastating effects of aging. A study at Harvard University demonstrated an enormous reduction in risk of lung cancer in people who consumed carotenoid-rich foods as part of their regular diet.
With so many wonderful health benefits, it’s time to add more of the “ALRIGHT comfort food/superfood,” SWEET POTATOES, into your diet!