The modern food industry in its effort to regain economic supremacy is quelling the naturally available traditional foods. Poor men nutrient ‘Sweet Potato’ is a rich source of vitamins C and E, act as powerful antioxidants. Adding “Sweet Potato” in Anganwadi/mid-day meal scheme could be the game changer in addressing malnourishment which is haunting children. It is the best, easy & cost effective option for low income country like India. Largely, it will also act as an economic tonic to distressed ‘Sweet Potato’ growing farmers.
Antioxidants present in ‘Sweet Potato’ act as insulation against several chronic diseases, like cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Growing evidence for the protective health effects of its bioactive constituents has attracted new interest in this root vegetable from the food industry, consumers, and scientists
• Sweet potatoes are incredibly rich in beta carotene, the antioxidant responsible for the vegetable’s bright orange colour.
• It Protects against Chronic Diseases
• Natural anti-inflammatory compounds in sweet potatoes help reduce inflammation at the cellular level. Research has found that sweet potatoes, specifically purple ones, can offer anti-inflammatory properties.
• It regulates blood sugar levels
• High fiber content makes them a slow-burning starch. You can use potato skin popularly known potato jacket into your recipes for extra nutrients and antioxidants.
Rich Source of Fiber:
• One cup of baked sweet potato provides about three grams of fiber. The daily recommended fiber intake for women and men is 25 grams and 38 grams, respectively.
• High-fiber foods help lower your type 2 diabetes risk. Fiber causes your intestines to slowly absorb sugar, helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels. For that reason, fiber is also good for people with diabetes.
Caution:
Excessive consumption of sweet potatoes likely to increase risk of kidney stones. Patients with recurrent kidney stones are advised to limit the intake of sweet potatoes.
Dr. Pramod N Sulikeri, Ph.D
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