Sweet Potatoes VS Potatoes: Which one is HEALTHIER and a MUST HAVE in your diet?

Every second person’s favourite vegetable seems to be potatoes. And why shouldn’t that be? Potatoes are beloved for their versatility, their taste and how compatible they seem to be with other foods. They are also the main ingredients of your favourite junk foods - fries and chips! Whereas even though sweet potatoes aren’t as popular, they’re quickly becoming the healthier alternative to regular potatoes.

When compared to potatoes, sweet potatoes are thought to have a lower calorie and carb count. But are sweet potatoes really the healthier alternative to regular potatoes? Or are potatoes just as healthy if consumed properly? Let’s take a look to find out if you should be ditching potatoes for sweet potatoes just yet!

Health benefits of potatoes:

1. Potatoes are also a great source of resistant starch. After it gets digested, potatoes pass through the large intestine and feed on the good bacteria in our gut. This controls blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.

2. Potatoes can keep us full for longer than other complex carbs, therefore eating potatoes can result in a lower calorie intake through the day.

3. Potatoes are also a good source of antioxidants. They are rich in flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids, which can prevent cancer, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses.

ALSO READ: Honey VS Sugar: Here's how THEY are different from each other

Health benefits of sweet potatoes:

1. Sweet potatoes a good source of manganese. Manganese is important for bone development, metabolism, and absorption of vitamins.

2. Sweet potatoes are also full of magnesium which help us with blood sugar management, blood pressure, and metabolism.

3. Sweet potatoes also fight inflammation. They are also loaded with Vitamin A which is great for maintaining good eye health.

ALSO READ: Carrots vs Radish: Find out HOW they contribute to a wholesome diet

Difference between potatoes and sweet potatoes:

1. A medium sized baked sweet potato contains 103 calories, 2.29 grams of protein, 0.27 grams of fat, 23.6 grams of carbohydrates, 3.8 grams of fiber and 7.39 grams of sugar. It is also rich in vitamins C and B, potassium, and choline.

2. Meanwhile, a medium sized potato has 115 calories, 2.49 grams of protein, 0.06 grams of fat, 26.71 grams of carbohydrates, 4.6 grams of fiber, and 0.81 grams of sugar. It is also full of vitamins C and B, and potassium.

3. Potatoes are lower in fat and sugar, whereas sweet potatoes have fewer carbs and calories. While sweet potatoes contain more vitamin A and vitamin C, regular potatoes contain more protein and fiber.

ALSO READ: Blueberry Vs. Strawberry: Everything you need to know about these two berries

Potatoes vs Sweet potatoes - which one is healthier?

When it comes to potatoes vs. sweet potatoes, there is no clear winner. Both of them have their own sets of pros and cons, and should be eaten in moderate amounts. Consult your doctor about your potato intake especially if you are a diabetic.

ALSO READ: Green Beans Benefits: THESE are the reasons why you should eat this vegetable regularly