Sweet Potato, which we call Shakarkand in India, is one root vegetable which is visible in the local market. Dietician Avni says this vegetable which is orange and yellow in appearance has several health benefits to offer. However, certain factors also need to be kept in mind while you eat Shakarkand. This blog by Delhi’s top dietician Avni Kaul shares the health benefits of sweet potatoes.
Manages blood pressure
Sweet potato has a good amount of potassium, which helps in balancing the excess level of sodium in the body. Thus, helps in regulating blood pressure. Tip: To avail, the most benefit tries not to fry this, rather grill it and just use salt in a restricted manner.
It’s a boon for immunity
It has plenty of antioxidants, particularly Vitamin C. It helps in building the immune cells (WBC), thus creating the line of defence against all sort of infections. Tip: Add some other vegetables with it, as it will provide more antioxidants.
Good for eyes
Vitamin A is one important nutrient needed for our eyes. And Shakarkand has a lot of them, it approximately fulfills 66% of the daily need for vitamin A. Several eye problems such as night blindness, age-linked macular degeneration could be avoided with a good dose of Vitamin A.
Tip: There are other important nutrients like zinc, protein, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C that are good for eye health. So consume sweet potato besides these nutrients.
Minimize heart-related diseases
Potassium, magnesium, and calcium all blended together help to maintain a healthy heartbeat and blood vessels. The antioxidants also help in reducing inflammation in the arteries and preventing them from clogging, all of which help in reducing heart-related issues. Tip: Also, include vegetables such as broccoli, garlic, tomatoes and garlic to keep your heart healthy.
Assists in weight loss
A half cup of sweet potato provides a good amount of fiber, around 2.9 grams. This amount of fiber is good enough to keep us full for hours. Thus, avoiding unnecessary bingeing on unhealthy foods. Tip: Go for the baked sweet potato, specifically, for your weight issues.
Helps to manage stress
Shakarkandi is a good source of magnesium. Nearly 80% of RDA is half a cup of sweet potato. Magnesium is important for your body. It is also needed for bone health, and several cellular functions. Certain studies have indicated it has sleep-promoting qualities and also promotes stress-reducing elements.
Tip: Try to eat the grilled version of this potato along with lemon juice drops, as vitamin C is another nutrient that is good to counter stress.
Avni Kaul is Founder of Nutriactivania with Masters Degree in Food and Nutrition from University of Delhi and is also a Certified Diabetes Educator from Project Hope and International Diabetes Federation. She is a Leicester Mammas Ambassador trained in Lactation Counselling with NHS United Kingdom. Mammas support pregnant and new mothers and their families. Specializations of Avni Kaul Include Infant and Young Child Feeding Practises, Pre and Post natal diets, Fat loss, Muscle Gain and Holistic Health and Nutrition