*Sweet potatoes are starchy tuberous root vegetables from the plant Ipomea batatas.

*These look like potatoes (nearly) have a mildly sweet to very sweet taste and hence the name sweet potatoes.

*Although there are many varieties of sweet potatoes, the most popular varieties are yellow fleshed and orange fleshed varieties.

*These can be eaten raw or cooked, and can be used much in the same way as potatoes – bakes, fried, roasted, stewed, etc.

*These can also be dried or candied, and also used in sweet dishes like sweet pie, dessert, etc.

*The juice of sweet potatoes is also used to make a natural dye for clothes. It produces various shades of pink when mixed with lime juice.

*Buying and storage: Select beetroots that are fresh, healthy-looking and plump without any wrinkles or soft spots or leaking. Store them in the cupboard in a cool dry place away from heat and light. These can also be stored in the refrigerator to increase its shelf life.

Is it raw?

Yes, fresh sweet potatoes are raw.

Health Benefits

1. Sweet potatoes are a food rich in carbohydrates and dietary fiber that also provides a moderate amount of protein and absolutely no fats and cholesterol.

2. Good source of dietary fiber. Contrary to the popular notion, beans have more fiber than most fruits and vegetables. It is a good source of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber.

3. Excellent source of Vitamin A and betacarotenes. They enhance the eye sight, fight against acne, and result in smooth radiant skin.

4. Good source of Vitamin B6, which helps in the synthesis of antibodies in the immune system apart from red blood formation, protein metabolism and functioning of the central nervous system.

5. Moderate source of other B – group vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and B6 that are essential to enhance the energy production from the foods.

6. Moderate source of copper and manganese, which reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases, enhance the activity of certain enzymes and also play a role in detoxification reactions.

7. Moderate source of magnesium. It helps in relieving fatigue, relaxing the muscles, nerves and blood vessels, thus relieving the symptoms of asthma, migraine headaches, tension and soreness in muscles etc.

8. Good source of potassium, which is important for active muscles and nerves.