Love Shakarkandi In Winters? Here Are Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes

The starchy, sweet-tasting root vegetable known as the sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas). It features a thin, brown exterior skin and vibrantly coloured flesh that is typically orange but can also be white, purple, or yellow. Sweet potatoes can be consumed whole or peeled, and the plant's leaves can also be consumed. Despite sharing the name "potato," sweet potatoes and plain white potatoes are unrelated. In terms of botany, the white potato is a member of the nightshade family, while the sweet potato is a member of the bindweed or morning glory family.

Prevents Cancer

There is evidence that eating a balanced diet can lower the risk of cancer, even if there are no "superfoods" that can prevent cancer and some risk factors for cancer are unrelated to diet. Antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by "free radicals," are abundant in fruits and vegetables. According to studies, the antioxidants in the peel of sweet potatoes, particularly purple sweet potatoes, may help slow down this oxidation process and lower the risk of cancer. Sweet potatoes don't need to be peeled to be nutritious; just give them a good scrub before cooking.

Improves digestion

Due to their high fibre content, sweet potatoes have been demonstrated to support a healthy digestive system. Although much of the study so far has been done on animals, it appears that sweet potatoes' high levels of plant sterols (phytosterols) may protect the digestive system and help prevent and treat duodenal and gastric ulcers, especially those brought on by NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen).

The beta-carotene found in sweet potatoes is what produces the root's brilliant orange flesh. Our bodies employ vitamin A, which is created when we eat beta-carotene, to build light-detecting receptors in the eyes. This is crucial for maintaining eye health and night vision.

Improves Immunity

Sweet potatoes' high beta-carotene content may also promote immune system function. This is due to the fact that vitamin A is crucial for preserving the health of the mucous membranes in the gut and respiratory systems.