An Abuja based nutritionist, says the consumption of sweet potato
helps improve blood sugar regulation especially in patients with type 2
diabetes.
According to her, the slow release of sweet potato’s
natural sugar into the blood stream helps ensure a balanced and regular
source of energy without spiking up the blood sugar.
She
added that the soluble fibre in sweet potato such as pectin may increase
satiety, decrease food intakes and also reduce blood sugar spikes by
slowing down the digestion of sugars and starches.
She also
said that sweet potatoes are rich in several mineral and vitamins such
as Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Fibre, potassium, magnesium, Iron and Vitamin
D, among others.
The nutritionist noted that sweet potato is
enriched with vitamin B6 which helps reduce the chemical homocysteine in
the body which caused heart attacks.
Other health benefits
She
also stated that consuming sweet potatoes helps ward of cancer cells
and as well as protect against the effects of ageing due to its rich
contents in beta carotene.
“Consuming sweet potatoes helps
strengthen the eyesight, boost immune system, regulate heartbeat and
nerve signals and reduces swelling.
“It also helps in
controlling the activities of the kidneys, production of red and white
blood cell, metabolises protein as well as helps resist stress.
“Consuming sweet potatoes decreases fasting blood glucose and LDL – cholesterol levels as well as increase insulin sensitivity.
“Consumption
of sweet potatoes also helps reduce risk of blood clotting and
considered an excellent food because it does not contain any toxins,’’
she said.
However, the nutritionist advised those interested,
to consume sweet potatoes in moderation due to its high contents in
oxalates, cautioning that it can increase the risk of kidney stones
formation.
