Sweet superfood: The 6 health benefits of nutrient-rich sweet potatoes

( Natural News ) Sweet potatoes — scientifically known as Ipomoea batatas — are sweet, starchy root vegetables grown all over the world. They come in various sizes and colors, including orange, white, and purple. These root tubers are one of the healthiest foods you can add to your diet. Here are just six health benefits of sweet potatoes: Offer many nutrients: Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These include protein, manganese, potassium, and vitamins A, B6, and C. They are also rich in antioxidants , especially the orange and purple varieties, that protect the body from free radical damage and chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and aging. Boost immunity: Sweet potatoes, particularly the orange varieties, contain high amounts of beta-carotene that is converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is vital in keeping the immune system healthy, and the lack of this vitamin has been linked to reduced immunity. It is also essential in keeping the mucous membranes, especially in the lining of the gut, healthy. A healthy gut is also important in a healthy immune system. (Related: Sweet potatoes are nutrient-dense foods with high amounts of beta-carotene .) Improve eye health: Beta-carotene is also used to form light-detecting receptors inside the eyes, supporting eye health. Purple sweet potatoes may also support healthy vision due to their anthocyanins that protect eye cells from damage. Enhance gut health: Sweet potatoes can improve gut health because of their fiber content. There are two types of fiber in sweet potatoes: soluble and insoluble. Fiber can’t be digested and stays within the digestive tract and provides a variety of gut-related health benefits. Viscous fibers – a type of soluble fiber – absorb water and soften stool, whereas non-viscous, insoluble fibers don’t absorb water but add bulk. […]

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