Sweet potatoes are a popular root vegetable in Nigeria, with various types such as white, yellow, orange-fleshed, and purple. According to dietitian Saadatu Sulaiman, sweet potatoes are considered a “superfood” due to their numerous health benefits. They are good for eye health, digestion, and can even help manage diabetes. Additionally, sweet potatoes are affordable, making them a great option for families seeking nutritious food without breaking the bank.
Globally, sweet potatoes are a significant crop, with China being the largest producer. Nigeria is among the top producers in Africa and the world.
The benefits of sweet potatoes include:
– Supporting eye health and immune function through beta-carotene
– Helping manage diabetes due to their low glycemic index
– Aiding digestion and promoting gut health through fiber
– Supporting weight management
– Providing antioxidants that protect against cell damage and inflammation
– Promoting heart health through potassium
Some healthy ways to prepare sweet potatoes include boiling, steaming, roasting, baking, and mashing. It’s also recommended to consume the skin, which is rich in antioxidants.
The nutritional profile of raw sweet potatoes (per 100g) includes:
– Energy: 86 kcal
– Carbohydrates: 20.12g
– Fiber: 3.0g
– Protein: 1.57g
– Fat: 0.05g
– Iron: 0.69mg
– Folate: 11µg
– Cholesterol: 0mg
