(per 100 grams of raw sweet potato)
- Calories: 86
- Water: 77%
- Protein: 1.6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20.1 grams
- Sugar: 4.2 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Fat: 0.1 grams
Vitamins and Minerals:
Vitamin A: Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. This is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health.
Vitamin C: Important for the immune system, skin health, and iron absorption.
Potassium: Helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals.
Manganese: Plays a role in metabolism, bone formation, and antioxidant functions.
Other Nutrients: Sweet potatoes also contain small amounts of calcium, iron, magnesium, and folate.
Health Benefits:
High in Antioxidants: The beta-carotene and other antioxidants in sweet potatoes help protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Supports Digestive Health: The fiber content aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut.
Blood Sugar Regulation: Despite their natural sweetness, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, meaning they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream.
Fun Facts about Sweet Potatoes:
Not Actually Potatoes: Despite their name, sweet potatoes are not related to regular potatoes. They belong to the morning glory family, while regular potatoes are part of the nightshade family.
Variety of Colors: Sweet potatoes come in various colors, including orange, purple, white, and yellow. Each color has unique health benefits.
Rich History: Sweet potatoes have been cultivated for over 5,000 years, originating in Central and South America.
Nutrient Powerhouse: They are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, which support a healthy immune system and good vision.
Low Glycemic Index: Sweet potatoes release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, making them a good option for blood sugar control.
Space Food: NASA has considered sweet potatoes as a potential food source for astronauts on long space missions due to their nutritional value and ease of cultivation.
Things You Need to Know About Diabetes:
What are normal A1C levels?
A normal A1C level is below 5.7%, a level of 5.7% to 6.4% indicates prediabetes, and a level of 6.5% or more indicates diabetes. Within the 5.7% to 6.4% prediabetes range, the higher your A1C, the greater your risk is for developing type 2 diabetes.
What is the best diet for a person with diabetes?
There are several diets that are recommended for a person with diabetes but there is no one size fits all diet. The best diet is case by case and will need to be prescribed and monitored by a licensed health professional to ensure your diet is always aligned with your ever changing day to day. Click on the red chat icon and chat with one of our health coaches so they can help you find the best diet for you.
Will exercise help my diabetes?
Yes. Exercise can help you manage type 2 diabetes. Exercise, diet, and medication adherence along with living a more active life are the main ways to manage diabetes. The type of exercise, duration and frequency of it will vary from person to person. If you want to learn more, click the red chat icon and chat with one of our health coaches. We would love to help.
Can diabetes be prevented if I am at risk?
Yes. In most instances Diabetes can be prevented. Ways to prevent Diabetes vary based on the type of diabetes you are at risk for. Having regular diabetes screenings is the best way to know how your body is regulating your blood sugar levels and to know your current level of risk.
Are my children at risk if I have type 2 Diabetes?
Yes. If you have type 2 diabetes your children are more susceptible to developing Type 2 diabetes but that doesn’t mean they will develop it. The best way to prevent the development of Type 2 Diabetes is to make sure they adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Will I need to take insulin if I have type 2 diabetes?
Yes, if you exhibit poor control of your blood sugar levels. Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition which only gets worse over time if it is poorly managed.
