Are you looking for a healthy and tasty addition to your diet? Look no further than 1 oz sweet potato (mashed, canned) which provides only 29 calories. Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense food that offers a wide range of health benefits.
These superfoods are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, fiber, and minerals such as potassium and iron. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases, and certain types of cancer.
In this article, we'll explore the amazing health benefits of sweet potatoes, how to incorporate them into your diet, their nutritional value, cooking tips, and some delicious recipes you can try today.
Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a superfood that offer numerous health benefits. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can boost overall health and wellness. Here are some of the health benefits of sweet potatoes: 1. Promotes gut health: Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, which feeds the good bacteria in your gut, improves digestion, and lowers the risk of digestive problems such as constipation and diarrhea. 2. Boosts immunity: Sweet potatoes are loaded with antioxidants such as beta-carotene and vitamin C that can strengthen the immune system and protect against infections and diseases.
How to Incorporate Sweet Potatoes into Your Diet
Sweet potatoes are a versatile food that can be incorporated into various dishes. Here are some tips on how to incorporate them into your diet: 1. Bake or roast them: Cut sweet potatoes into fries, wedges, or cubes and bake or roast them for a healthy and flavorful snack or side dish. 2. Use them in soups and stews: Sweet potatoes can add sweetness and thickness to soups and stews. Add them in chunks or puree them for a creamy texture.
Sweet Potatoes vs Regular Potatoes: Which is Healthier?
When it comes to potatoes, sweet potatoes and regular potatoes are often compared. While both are tuber vegetables, there are some differences between them in terms of taste, texture, and nutritional value. Sweet potatoes are sweeter and have a smoother texture than regular potatoes. They are also higher in fiber, vitamin A, and potassium than regular potatoes. Regular potatoes, on the other hand, are higher in vitamin C and lower in calories than sweet potatoes.
The Nutritional Value of Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutrient-dense food that offers a wide range of vitamins and minerals. Here are the nutritional values in a 1 oz serving of mashed and canned sweet potatoes: calories: 29 Vitamin A: 7643 IU, Vitamin C: 1.7 mg, Fiber: 0.7 g, Potassium: 61 mg, Iron: 0.2 mg
Cooking Tips for Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes can be cooked in many ways, depending on your preference. Here are some cooking tips for sweet potatoes: 1. Boiling: Peel and chop sweet potatoes and boil them in water for 10-15 minutes until they are soft. 2. Baking: Cut sweet potatoes into wedges or cubes and bake them in the oven for 20-30 minutes until they are crispy and tender.
Sweet Potato Recipes to Try Today
Sweet potatoes can be added to various dishes for a healthy and flavorful meal. Here are some sweet potato recipes you can try today: 1. Sweet Potato Fries: Cut sweet potatoes into fries, season them with salt and pepper, and bake them until they are crispy and golden brown. 2. Sweet Potato Soup: Puree sweet potatoes with chicken or vegetable broth and spices for a creamy and comforting soup.
Sweet Potatoes and Weight Loss
Sweet potatoes are a low-calorie food that can aid weight loss. They are high in fiber and water, which can promote satiety and reduce hunger cravings. Here are some tips on how to include sweet potatoes in your weight loss diet: 1. Replace high-calorie snacks with sweet potatoes: Instead of reaching for chips or cookies, snack on roasted sweet potatoes for a healthy and filling treat. 2. Use sweet potatoes as a side dish: Replace rice or pasta with sweet potatoes as a side dish for a low-calorie and nutrient-dense meal.
Sweet Potatoes for a Plant-Based Diet
Sweet potatoes are a great addition to a plant-based diet. They are rich in nutrients that vegans and vegetarians often lack such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron. Here are some ways on how to include sweet potatoes in your plant-based diet: 1. Use sweet potatoes as a substitute for meat: Sweet potatoes can add bulk and flavor to vegetarian dishes such as burgers and tacos. 2. Make a sweet potato mash: Mash sweet potatoes and use them as a topping for shepherd's pie or casseroles.
How Many Calories in a Sweet Potato?
The number of calories in a sweet potato depends on its size and preparation method. Here is the calorie content in 1 oz of mashed and canned sweet potatoes: Calories: 29
The Best Time to Eat Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes can be eaten any time of the day, depending on your preference. However, it's best to eat them during the day or as a pre-workout snack to get the energy and nutrients you need. Avoid eating sweet potatoes late at night as they can impact your sleep.
Eating sweet potatoes regularly can promote gut health and boost immunity.
5 FAQ About Canned Mashed Sweet Potatoes
1. What is the nutritional composition of canned mashed sweet potato?
A serving size of 1 oz canned mashed sweet potato contains 29 calories, 0.3 g of protein, 0.1 g of fat, and 6.8 g of carbohydrates. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
2. How long can canned mashed sweet potato be stored?
Canned mashed sweet potatoes have a long shelf life and can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 years. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days.
3. Is canned mashed sweet potato healthy?
Canned mashed sweet potatoes can be a healthy option as they are low in calories and high in fiber and important nutrients like vitamins A and C, and potassium. However, it is important to check the label for added sugars and sodium which can negate their health benefits.
4. Can canned mashed sweet potato be used in recipes?
Yes, canned mashed sweet potatoes can be used as a convenient and nutritious ingredient in various recipes. They can be used in sweet dishes like pies, muffins, and sweet potato casserole or in savory dishes like soups, stews, and curries.
5. How are canned mashed sweet potatoes processed?
Canned mashed sweet potatoes are made by washing, peeling, and cooking sweet potatoes until they are soft. They are then mashed, seasoned, and canned in a syrup or a water-based solution to preserve their freshness.