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5 things you didn’t know about sweet potatoes

An easy way to improve your health.

Once regarded as being a superfood, the humble sweet potato has lost some of its popularity recently, replaced by power greens such as kale and spirulina. However, this tuber actually packs a powerful punch, and you can experience many health benefits if you eat it regularly.

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1. Sweet potato can satisfy sugar cravings

In an article for The Independent, sweet potatoes were identified as having a high level of natural sugar and as such, eating a roasted-up sweet potato can actually satisfy those sugar cravings you might be feeling around dinner time.

2. Sweet potato can stimulate hair growth

American skincare specialist Dermveda reports that sweet potato has all the important nutrients needed for hair growth, such as B vitamins, potassium, vitamin C and zinc, and although there is no scientific evidence around the effect of sweet potato on hair growth, it can be an excellent source of supportive nutrients.

sweet potato health benefits cut up
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

3. Sweet potato can reduce your stress levels

Clean Eating magazine wrote that sweet potato is rich in fibre and complex carbohydrates which can help maintain sugar levels and balance moods, while studies show that high-glycaemic foods, such as white bread, cookies and cakes, can actually increase your risk of anxiety.  

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4. Sweet potato is a rich source of fibre

According to Nutrition Australia, dietary fibre is essential for a healthy digestive system. One cup of sweet potato contains around 3.7 grams of fibre, making a healthy serve of sweet potato an easy way to up your fibre intake.

sprinkling sweet potato with herbs
(Credit: Getty) (Credit: Getty)

5. Sweet potato is good for your skin

According to Better Health Victoria sweet potato is an excellent source of vitamins A and B6, which are both excellent for your skin. Vitamin B6 assists with the growth and repair of skin cells, while vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports skin, eye and reproductive health, as well as maintaining immune functions.

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