Are Sweet Potatoes Good For You?

Are sweet potatoes good for you? Sweet potatoes contain a reliable source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The nutrient content of one cup of baked sweet potato is the following:

Are sweet potatoes good for you?  iStock-photo credit: MahirAtes

• Calories- 180
• Carbs- 41 grams
• Protein- 4 grams
• Fat- 0.3 grams
• Fiber- 6.6 grams
• Vitamin A- 213% of the Daily Value
• Vitamin C- 44% of the Daily Value
• Manganese- 43% of the Daily Value
• Copper- 36% of the Daily Value
• Pantothenic Acid- 35% of the Daily Value
• Vitamin B6- 34% of the Daily Value
• Potassium- 20% of the Daily Value
• Niacin- 19% of the Daily Value

Sweet potatoes contain soluble and insoluble fiber which is important for the health of your digestive tract. The health aspect of soluble fiber is it absorbs water and softens your stool, but what’s interesting is insoluble fiber doesn’t absorb water buts adds bulk.

Research studies have shown that consuming fiber rich diets can lower the risk of colon cancer and help you obtain regular bowel movements.

Sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene, and this is converted to Vitamin A which helps with maintaining eye health. Because Sweet potatoes has a natural source of beta carotene it naturally converts to Vitamin A into your body which helps with improving your immune system.

The Bottom Line is Sweet Potatoes is a healthy root vegetable that has a tremendous amount of health benefits such as providing insoluble and soluble fiber which helps with creating positive gut health.

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References

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13. USDA- https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168483/nutrients