Purple Sweet Potatoes; Why You Need Them In Your Diet.
Purple Sweet Potatoes are not only delicious with a unique flavour and a rich purple hue, but they also have a slew of health benefits associated with them.
Purple Sweet Potatoes have become a popular choice among the Potato family in recent years. You may have noticed them at your local grocery or health food store – they certainly stand out – and wondered what makes them different from your average white potato?
Do they have a different flavour?
Do they taste similar to an orange sweet potato?
Do they have the same health benefits as an orange sweet potato?
Let us answer these questions, and more, for you.
Health Properties
For starters, the Purple sweet potato and orange sweet potato contain different health properties;
“Sweet potatoes with orange flesh are rich in carotenoids. In contrast, sweet potatoes with purple-colored flesh are rich in anthocyanins, the compound that gives them their rich, vibrant color. … Studies have compared the antioxidant content of white, cream and purple-fleshed sweet potatoes.” – Gord Kerr from Livestrong.com
The different sweet potato types do hold some things in common. They are all a good source of complex carbohydrates, which fuel your brain and body.
Most sweet potato varieties have similar mineral and vitamin content, however, the colour of the flesh is what really changes the level of antioxidants.
Anthocyanin – which is found in purple sweet potato – is a strong antioxidant, which has been known to hold anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity effects.
A few other health benefits of Purple Sweet Potato are;
- They may improve your blood pressure. Due to their high potassium and antioxidant content.
- They are very fibrous, something that many diets are missing.
- They’re better for your blood sugar levels in comparison to yellow and white potatoes.
Calories
It is also noted that for your average cooked sweet potato, the calorie count is at around 100 calories.
This means they make for a delicious snack or addition to your meal, filling you up whilst being low in calories.
Flavour
As for the flavour contrast between an orange sweet potato and a purple sweet potato;
Purple sweet potatoes have a rich, creamy flavour. Whereas the Orange sweet potato has a slightly sweeter taste but a more watery texture.
Try some of our Purple Potato Latte today and enjoy the creamy flavour and health benefits!
Image by GuideYourPet
References:
https://www.livestrong.com/article/543172-which-sweet-potato-is-the-healthiest/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/purple-potatoes#2.-Better-for-blood-sugar