- By Bornika Das
- Fri, 18 Apr 2025 11:37 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Shakarkandi Health Benefits: Shakarkandi, also known as sweet potatoes, are nutrient-rich superfoods that offer amazing health benefits. These underground tubers are not just a winter favourite but are a year-round vegetable that can be eaten as a snack. Naturally sweet, filling and versatile, sweet potatoes are packed with water, carbohydrates, protein, fibre, minerals and essential vitamins, making them a perfect addition to the daily diet. Sharkarkandi can be consumed roasted, boiled, mashed or turned into delicious snacks.
Being a comfort food, sweet potatoes have a high glycemic index, anti-inflammatory properties and a rich antioxidant profile that help nourish the body and satisfy the taste buds at the same time. Over the years, this superfood has made its way to the plates of the Indians owing to its earthy and sweet flavour. Moreover, this root vegetable has plant compounds like beta carotene, chlorogenic acid, anthocyanins and coumarin. Here are the five surprising health benefits of Shakarkandi that you must not miss.
Health Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes
Digestion
Owing to their fibre content, sweet potatoes are excellent for digestion. They contain soluble fibres like pectin and insoluble fibres like cellulose and lignin. Consuming this root vegetable every day helps to prevent major diseases.
Blood Sugar
The medium to high glycemic index of sweet potatoes makes them ideal for diabetic patients. Their glycemic index ranges from 44 to 96, which makes them a diabetic food when consumed in moderation. The manganese content supports carbohydrate metabolism, helping regulate blood sugar levels and control spikes.
Immunity
Shakarkandi boosts immunity owing to its anti-inflammatory compounds like anthocyanins and choline. The iron content helps provide stress resistance, increases red and white blood cell production and regulates immune function.
Health Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes (Image Credits: Canva)
Heart Health
The presence of vitamin B6 in sweet potatoes promotes heart health by reducing homocysteine levels in the body, which has been linked to heart attacks. Moreover, the potassium content helps maintain fluid balance and lower blood pressure.
Fight Cancer
Sweet potatoes have cancer-fighting properties due to their rich antioxidant content, particularly carotenoids. This compound has been found to lower the risk of stomach, kidney and breast cancer. Purple sweet potatoes contain three times the antioxidants found in blueberries.
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