Sweet Pantry Addition

5.10

All foods are not created equally. If I've learned anything on my wellness journey, it is that truth. I know after years of learning about healthful eating, and then living out my convictions, that some foods are great for my everyday diet, and others are not.

One vegetable that I have grown fond of is the sweet potato. Gone are the days of sweet potatoes being the holiday casserole with sugary syrup and marshmallows on top. Now sweet potatoes are found in all forms of main dishes, side dishes and snacks. and all of these make nutritious and tasty offerings for our pantry.

I don't eat white potatoes, which are from the nightshade family, but sweet potatoes are different. A simple root tuber, sweet potatoes offer numerous vitamins and minerals,fiber, antioxidants and a good calorie to fiber profile to assist in regulating blood sugar. Here are some nutritional highlights of common sweet potatoes:
High in vitamins A, C, B6 and niacin and thiamine
High in minerals like manganese, potassium and copper
High in protein and fiber, low in fat

Our bodies benefit from sweet potatoes in that they help regulate blood sugar and aid in weight loss. They aid in our immunity and are high in antioxidants, and promote good vision. So give sweet potatoes another look when you're stocking your pantry this week. Or maybe you can substitute a sweet potato side dish for regular potatoes next time you're eating out.

For other details on the value of sweet potatoes for your pantry, check out this article from Dr. Axe's website: Sweet Potato Facts & Benefits

By the Way

Sweet potatoes are not yams, and yams are not sweet potatoes. They are two different kinds of root tubers. Most of the confusion happens in our western-market grocery stores because the two descriptions are used interchangeably (when they shouldn't be). Check out this article from Epicurious about the difference: Sweet Potatoes compared to Yams