Sweet Potatoes and Health

Sweet potatoes are relatively low in calories and have no fat. They are rich in beta-carotene , having five times the recommended daily allowance of Vitamin A in one sweet potato, as well as loaded with potassium. These nutrients help to protect against heart attack and stroke. The potassium helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body cells, as well as normal heart function and blood pressure.

Wild Mexican "yams" which are related to the sweet potato, seem to have anti-weight-gain, anti-cancer, and anti-aging properties, according to Dr. Earl Mindell.

True yams do not contain as much Vitamin A and C as sweet potatoes.

• The Difference Between Sweet Potatoes and Yams
• Sweet Potato Selection and Storage
• Sweet Potato Fact Sheet
• Yam Selection and Storage
• Yam Fact Sheet
• Sweet Potato and Yam Health Benefits
• Sweet Potato History
• Sweet Potato / Yam Recipes
Sweet Potatoes and Yams Photo © 2006 Peggy Trowbridge, licensed to About.com, Inc.