I swear by the "a sweet potato a day let's this Coach Mindy play," rule because they are a powerhouse of nutrition and have been a big part of supporting my health, fitness and nutrition goals!
Did you know sweet potatoes are not only delicious, but packed full of essential vitamins and minerals too? Yes!
They offer complex carbs, help support of a healthy waistline, and are incredibly easy to add to a variety of recipes or enjoy all on their own! If you don't already love them, get ready to discover a new found love for these tasty potato gems!
Here are a few good reasons to add sweet potatoes to your diet!
They are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals:
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Manganese
Copper
Pantothenic Acid
Vitamin B6
Potassium
Biotin
Vitamin B1
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B2
Phosphorus
Iron
Dietary fiber
They are even an excellent source of water!
Health benefits include:
Anti-inflammatory properties
Help regulate blood sugar levels
Carry cancer prevention benefits
Loaded with anti-aging properties
They have even been studied for their antibacterial and anti fungal properties!
Sweet potatoes are a carb you can feel good about!
Did you know that carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source and essential for healthy brain function? Consuming complex "unrefined carbs" also supports healthy metabolism, nervous system function, digestion and sleep. Because these orange fleshy potatoes happen to be of the complex carbohydrate variety they will break down to be used more efficiently by the body, releasing slowly into the bloodstream in order to help you sustain good energy vs. the typical spike and crash you get with those less healthy "refined carbs." Is it any wonder why they are a fitness enthusiasts favorite?
Still need a few more reasons to love them?
How about their amazing versatility! You can bake, boil, steam, mash, sauté and puree them! From sweet potato taquitos to grilled sweet potato casserole and a plethora of easy to whip up desserts, a quick search on Pinterest will reveal all sorts of simple, delicious and healthy recipes. Because my work week tends to get a bit hectic, I often whip up a batch of mashed sweet potatoes I can easily add to a variety of recipes or simply heat up to enjoy solo at the end of a long day.
If you are looking for a new favorite food that is versatile and full of flavor try sweet potatoes - they may just fit the bill!
Are you tired of starting over every Monday, hopping from diet to diet, wondering if you'll ever get it "right" so that you can lose the weight and become the best version of you? I’ve got you friend! Come join me inside my FREE women’s-only Facebook community: Eat Better with Coach Mindy. It's for busy women like you who are ready to lose weight, gain energy, get healthy and fit -- without restrictive diets or punishing food rules.
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