Known scientifically as lpomoea batatas. lt is native to Peru and dates from 750 A.C. lt is considered one of the oldest foods consumed by man. The sweet potato is rich in beta-carotene and fiber, which makes it a Super Food with great nutritional value.
There are approximately 5 thousand varieties, including the sweet white, purple, pink, orange and yellow potato. lts nutritional value exceeds that of regular potatoes, in addition to providing more beta carotene and ascorbic acid than carrots and citrus fruits, respectively. lts sweet taste is due to the naturally-occurring glucose, fructose and sucrose. They have a thin, brown skin on the outside with coloured flesh inside - most commonly orange in colour.
Benefits:
- A large sweet potato contains up to 100% of the daily recommended intake of beta carotene (vitamin A), that the body needs. lt is a powerful antioxidant that plays an essential role in the growth of bones and the strengthening of the immune system and is excellent at keeping the eyes and skin healthy.
- Due to its high natural sugar content, a surprising fact about the sweet potato is its ability to help regulate blood sugar, even in patients with Type 2 diabetes.
- Thanks to its high content of complex carbohydrates, which are digested more slowly, sweet potatoes substantively contribute to high energy levels (> 80%) and maintains the energy supply for a longer period of time.
- Another important characteristic of the sweet potato is the presence of vitamin C: an essential organic substance responsible for the growth and reparation of tissues, as well as for the healing of wounds and maintaining cartilages, bones and teeth healthy.
