Clinical Nutritionist Dr. Ushakiran Sisodia highlights the nutritional significance of sweet potatoes during the monsoon, emphasizing their health benefits as sweet and starchy root vegetables.
In the monsoon season, sweet potatoes or shakarkandi become a favorite treat for many. Renowned clinical nutritionist, Ushakiran Sisodia, from Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai, highlights the nutritional value and health benefits of these sweet and starchy root vegetables, making them a dietary gem during this time of the year.
“Their versatility in preparation, be it baking or roasting, makes them an ideal addition to the seasonal menu,” she added. Baking or roasting them not only makes for a warm and comforting meal but also ensures they are free of any monsoon-related contaminants, Sisodia explained. “Their immune-boosting properties, owing to their high Vitamin A content, can be beneficial during this season when infections are prevalent.”
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, boasting a wide array of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Their global cultivation has made them a popular and healthy choice for many, thanks to the various health benefits they offer.
Let’s explore the goodness of sweet potatoes to your diet during the monsoon season due to their numerous health benefits, including:
1. Boosting Immunity:
Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and helps protect against infections and illnesses commonly associated with the monsoon.
2. Improving Digestion:
The high fiber content in sweet potatoes aids in better digestion and helps prevent digestive issues that may arise during the rainy season.
3. Regulating Blood Sugar:
Despite their sweetness, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index compared to regular potatoes, making them a good option for people with diabetes or those looking to manage blood sugar levels.
4. Hydration:
Sweet potatoes have a high water content, which helps keep you hydrated during the humid monsoon weather.
5. Nutrient Powerhouse:
They are a rich source of vitamins like A, B6, and C, as well as minerals like potassium and manganese, providing a nutritional boost to your diet.
6. Supporting Heart Health:
Potassium in sweet potatoes helps regulate blood pressure, reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
7. Enhancing Skin Health:
The antioxidants in sweet potatoes promote healthy skin by fighting oxidative stress and free radicals.
8. Satiety:
Sweet potatoes are filling and can help curb cravings, making them an ideal addition to your monsoon diet.
In conclusion, sweet potatoes are a highly nutritious and versatile vegetable that can be beneficial for health, especially during the monsoon season. Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, they offer a range of advantages, including boosting immunity, improving digestion, regulating blood sugar, and supporting heart health.
Additionally, their high water content helps keep the body hydrated, while the antioxidants contribute to healthy skin. Including sweet potatoes in your diet during the monsoon can be a delicious and healthy way to stay nourished and maintain overall well-being. As with any food, moderation is key, and incorporating sweet potatoes into a balanced diet will maximize their potential benefits.