Sweet potatoes are root vegetables that have been cultivated for thousands of years. These starchy tubers belong to the Convolvulaceae family and it is thought that they originated in South and Central America. Today, more than 400 different varieties are grown around the world. They can be served as a side dish or added to a meal as an ingredient. Not only are sweet potatoes delicious, but they also provide a range of health benefits. From regulating blood sugar levels to reducing inflammation and supporting weight loss, let’s look at a few reasons you should add sweet potatoes to your diet.

Studies have suggested that sweet potatoes, especially the purple-colored varieties, contain anti-inflammatory compounds. The orange varieties are also a great source of beta-carotene. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which is a powerful antioxidant able to fight inflammation. In fact, the orange-skinned varieties contain 400% of our vitamin A daily requirements. It’s a good idea to eat them with a bit of olive oil, as the fat assists your body in absorbing vitamin A more effectively.