Sweet potato

The sweet potato is a tuber that grows on the roots of the sweet potato plant. Just like regular potatoes, the origin is in South America. The Incas were already cultivating sweet potatoes here 800 years after Christ. Although a potato and a sweet potato are both considered a tuber, the vegetables are not related. Sweet potatoes are not part of the nightshade family, but part of the bindweed family.

Let’s zoom in on the health benefits:

1. Gut health:

Sweet potatoes contain insoluble and soluble fiber. Both types of fiber contribute to good intestinal flora. The high amount of soluble fibers such as pectin, inulin and anthocyanins in purple sweet potato (flavonoids responsible for the purple color) act as prebiotics. This is the breeding ground for good intestinal bacteria such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. Good intestinal health means good general health!

2. Low glycemic index:

Although they are sweet, they have a lower glycemic index than the regular white potato. This ensures that blood glucose does not rise as high and quickly. The advantage of this is that the body then needs less insulin. The more insulin is produced, the sooner your body will be inclined to store fat. This means that the sugars enter the blood more slowly. The fibers we just discussed also ensure gradual absorption of sugars. This keeps blood sugar levels constant and therefore your energy level.

3. Anti-stress:

Magnesium is a very important mineral that is involved in numerous processes in the dog’s body. However, many dogs (and people) have a chronic deficiency of it. Fortunately, sweet potatoes contain a nice amount of this mineral. Magnesium is known as the anti-stress mineral. Dogs with chronic stress also generally consume many more vitamins and minerals. Extra magnesium can then provide more relaxation and rest in the body.

4. Great for eyes and skin:

The substance beta-carotene is a natural pigment and a precursor of vitamin A. It occurs in plant material, especially brightly colored vegetables and fruits such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and mangoes. In the body, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A; a very important vitamin for healthy skin, a well-functioning immune system and good eyesight. Additionally, it also has antioxidant properties that can help protect against free radical damage. The darker the color, the more antioxidants!

5. Inflammation inhibition:

Sweet potatoes contain a lot of choline. This is a B vitamin-like substance that often belongs to a vitamin B complex. It is a substance that the body can produce itself in only small quantities. It is important, among other things, for the brain and the proper functioning of memory. Choline reduces chronic inflammatory responses in the body and thus reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Choline is also found in liver, egg, green leafy vegetables and beans.