An
Abuja based nutritionist, Mrs. Simisola Adebola, says the consumption
of sweet potato helps improve blood sugar regulation especially in
patients with type 2 diabetes.
Adebola said the natural sugar in sweet potato is slowly released
into the blood stream thereby helping to ensure a balanced and regular
source of energy without spiking up the blood sugar.
She added that the soluble fibre in sweet potatoes such as pectin may
increase satiety, decrease food intakes and also reduce blood sugar
spikes by slowing down the digestion of sugars and starches.
Adebola also said that sweet potatoes are packed with 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.
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.
She said, “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.”
However, the nutritionist advised that sweet potato should be
consumed in moderation due to its high contents in oxalates, cautioning
that it can increase the risk of kidney stones formation.