Potential anti-cancer properties
Scientists have long known that sweet potatoes have anti-inflammatory properties, but they have recently discovered that they also have anti-cancer properties. Scientists believe that sweet potato extract can be used as an effective treatment for prostate cancer. One study found that an extract made from sweet potato leaves inhibited the growth of cancer cells by 90% in mice with prostate cancer. Researchers also found that the extract reduced inflammation in these mice by 50% compared to untreated animals with cancer.
Can improve brain function
Vitamin A in sweet potatoes has been shown to help improve cognitive function. Researchers suggest that eating sweet potatoes could reduce your risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
One study examined how the antioxidants in sweet potatoes affected mice with symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease. They found that the antioxidant activity of sweet potatoes improved cognitive function in these mice by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage to nerve cells. Another study found that consuming sweet potatoes improved memory in people with mild cognitive impairment.
Sweet potatoes are very nutritious and delicious when baked or roasted. You should avoid adding sugar or oil to the cooking water or drizzling sugar over your sweet potatoes. Cooking sweet potatoes in sugar or oil adds unnecessary calories and fat to this flavorful vegetable. In this case, it’s best to skip the glaze. You should also avoid peeling sweet potatoes, as their skin contains many nutrients. The skin is where most of the nutrients are located, so removing it eliminates some vitamins and minerals.
Whether you boil them, bake them, or fry them, sweet potatoes are a versatile food that can be enjoyed on their own or in a variety of recipes. If you’re looking for an incredible source of fiber, try sweet potatoes. They’re one of the most versatile and healthy vegetables you can add to your diet.
