The health benefits of sweet potatoes for diabetics and more.
1. If you suffer with diabetes you should avoid foods which will make your blood sugar levels spike.
2. Potatoes are one of the most popular foods in the world, however regular potatoes have a high glycaemic index.This means that they turn to sugar very quickly in the body, which is bad for diabetics.
3. Sweet potatoes (yams) have a much lower glycaemic index and are a fantastic and tasty alternative.
4. The natural fibre in sweet potatoes prevents the blood sugar levels from rising too much.
5. Although they taste sweet, the natural sugars are slowly released into the bloodstream to prevent spikes.
6. They come in many different varieties, and all taste slightly different. They are absolutely delicious and can be used to make mash, chips, fries and more.
7. The main varieties include Purple, Hannah, Garnet, Japanese and Jewel sweet potatoes.
8. They contain a high amount of Vitamin A which supports the immune system and helps to keep strong bones, healthy eyes and skin.
9. They also contain Vitamin C, B6, B5, E, potassium, manganese, iron, calcium,
10. If you suffer with lactose intolerance but enjoy baked potatoes with cheese. You can use sweet potatoes as an alternative, as the natural sweetness is very satisfying.
11. Be sure to eat the skin also for some extra flavour. I recommend baking these in the oven whole, rubbed in a little olive oil and salt.
12. The potassium content helps to regulate your heartbeat and maintain a healthy nervous system.
13. Foods rich in carotenes such as these have been scientifically shown to reduce the risk of lung cancer when eaten regularly.
14. They work very well when added to salads. The natural sweetness balances out the bitterness from fresh salad leaves such as rocket.
15. The natural pigments are very anti-inflammatory and have been shown to prevent inflammation on brain and nerve tissue.
16. If you boil sweet potatoes, instead of throwing away the water you can apply this to the skin using a cotton ball. This works well in unblocking pores and treating oily skin.
17. The leaves of the sweet potatoes can also be eaten. Please see our other video on this to learn more.
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