Micronutrients & recovery
Consumption of sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) as a staple carbohydrate provides significant antioxidant benefits, including high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and specific polyphenols, which may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
Include sweet potatoes, especially the Satsuma Imo variety, in your diet. They are low-GI, rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and anthocyanins, and provide essential vitamins. They are a nutrient-dense alternative to refined grains.
Sweet potatoes contain root storage proteins... that have significant antioxidant capacities that rival even those of glutathione... Anthocyanins from an extract of the tuber of purple sweet potato... have shown stronger radical-scavenging activity than anthocyanins from red cabbage...
Why this rating
Evidence is largely from in vitro, animal, and observational studies; clinical trials in humans are noted as necessary.
Source
The Okinawan Diet: Health Implications of a Low-Calorie, Nutrient-Dense, Antioxidant-Rich Dietary Pattern Low in Glycemic Load
D. Craig Willcox et al. · Journal of the American College of Nutrition · 2009
DOI 10.1080/07315724.2009.10718117
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This is one finding among thousands. Every one is graded and traced to its source, so you can see what the evidence actually supports. Browse the research →