Want a food that's as scrumptious as a high-fat, high-calorie snack? Tickle your taste buds with a sugary spud. Although they're a favorite around Thanksgiving, sweet potatoes are beneficial to your health all year long. Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin E, vitamin C and vitamin A. The latter is particularly beneficial for smokers, who may create a vitamin A deficiency and develop emphysema as a result. These spuds are also rich in antioxidants. Research shows that this popular side dish improves heart health, fights high blood pressure and protect against inflammatory conditions like arthritis. The high fiber content of sweet potatoes keeps the digestive system running smoothly and may protect against colon cancer. The low glycemic index of sweet potatoes means these spuds will cause a gradual rise in blood sugar, leaving you satisfied longer.
It's a winner for those watching carbs and is even listed as a "safe" replacement for rice, pasta and corn on the Atkins diet. A sweet potato has just 115 calories. They make wonderfully versatile side dishes for any meal. Smash them up with a little butter and salt for an easy mashed-potato substitute. Cube and boil sweet potatoes, then drain and add a drizzle of olive oil, plus a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh rosemary if you like a savory flavor. Organic sweet potatoes may be prepared and eaten with the skins on; however, conventionally grown sweet potatoes should be peeled because they may have been treated with wax or dye.