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 disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja.
According to her, 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.
“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,’’ Adebola said.
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.
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