A dietitian set out to eat sweet potatoes every day for a week to see how the body would respond.
The experiment produced several surprising results, particularly when it came to satiety, energy levels, and digestion, according to Prevention.
The same variety
To keep the experiment consistent, only orange sweet potatoes were eaten throughout the week.
Preparation
The sweet potatoes were baked, mashed, oven-roasted, and cooked in an air fryer to provide some variety.
Also read: Do sunglasses block vitamin D? Here's what an eye doctor says
Suitable for multiple meals
They were usually eaten with dinner but were also included in breakfast and even blended into smoothies.
Increased energy
During the week, the dietitian noticed more stable energy levels throughout the afternoon.
Reduced hunger
Sweet potatoes provided a strong feeling of fullness after meals and helped reduce cravings for snacks and desserts later in the day.
Digestion remained healthy
The high fiber content helped keep digestion regular and stable throughout the experiment.
Also read: Should you choose greek yogurt or regular yogurt? Dietitians have the answer
The flavor became repetitive
By the sixth day, eating the same vegetable every day started to feel somewhat repetitive, although the benefits outweighed the monotony.
Rich in nutrients
A medium baked sweet potato with the skin contains carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, and high amounts of vitamin A, along with vitamin C and potassium.
Contains antioxidants
Orange sweet potatoes are a source of beta-carotene, while purple varieties contain anthocyanins. Both act as antioxidants.
May support the immune system
Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which plays an important role in the normal function of the immune system.
Also read: Parasitic outbreak grows in the US – possible sources under investigation
Sweet potatoes also provide vitamin C.
May provide more stable energy
Sweet potatoes are a complex carbohydrate that releases energy gradually and may help promote more stable blood sugar levels, particularly when eaten with the skin and paired with protein or healthy fats.
May support eye health
Their high beta-carotene content makes sweet potatoes an excellent source of the precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision.
Not everyone should eat large amounts
People with a history of calcium oxalate kidney stones or chronic kidney disease may need to limit their intake because of the oxalate and potassium content.
Also read: New discovery: Former COVID-19 patients may develop hidden eye problems
Anyone with a sweet potato allergy should, of course, avoid eating them.
The dietitian's conclusion
After one week, the dietitian concluded that sweet potatoes are a nutritious and versatile source of carbohydrates that can provide vitamins, dietary fiber, and steady energy.
Also read: Dietitian ate yogurt every day for a week: Here are the biggest changes