Here’s why (and how) to add more sweet potato to your diet

Rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals, sweet potatoes provide a number of health benefits. And while they’re both considered root vegetables, sweet potato has long been known as the healthier variety of potato. Not only that, they’re simple to prepare – whether baked or roasted, cut up into chips or mashed as a tasty side.

Health benefits of sweet potatoes

There’s a reason that health experts recommend including sweet potatoes in our regular diet. Eating them can lead to a sharper mind, a stronger heart, better immunity, and reduce your risk for heart disease.

Sweet potatoes are also high in fibre, which can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol and reduce the risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the fibre in sweet potatoes can contribute to a healthy gut.

Sweet potatoes come in a variety of colours — including orange, white and purple — all of which are chock-full of nutrients. Orange sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, so they’re also good for your eye health. Meanwhile, some research suggests that the antioxidants found in purple sweet potatoes may protect against certain cancers.

Studies have shown that the anthocyanins — a type of antioxidant — in purple sweet potatoes may also improve brain health by reducing inflammation and preventing mental decline.

How to cook sweet potatoes

Not only are sweet potatoes nutritional powerhouses jam-packed with nutrients, they’re super versatile too.

“We can’t go past the versatility of sweet potato, they go with anything and are so much more than a dinner side,” Magdalena Roze, the author of Happy and Whole tells Starts at 60.

While they’re delicious boiled, baked or mashed, Roze recommends adding these starchy, sweet root vegetables into your next dessert, whether it’s a cake, muffin or brownie.

“Sweet potatoes have a natural sweetness which makes them a delicious addition to desserts,” she says.

She also says they make the perfect choice if you’re looking for a plant-based option at your next family barbecue.

“Grill some sliced sweet potato and serve with a squeeze of lemon and crumbled feta for a simple and delicious summer staple,” she says.

For something a little different, try whipping up sweet potato galette at your next event. The best part is that this tasty dish is usually made up of only three ingredients: sweet potato, butter and parmesan cheese. Pair it up with a leafy green salad or some steamed veggies and enjoy!