Sweet Potato vs. Potato: Which One is Healthier?

Sweet potato and potato have a special place in the hearts of most vegetable-hating children. They're two of the few veggies that not only kids but also adults eat without complaining. Potatoes are a fan favourite not only because of their soft texture and wonderful flavor but also because they are high in nutrients and make a nutritious snack or dinner. Although both are popular, there is much debate over which is superior in terms of nutrition and overall health.

History and Origin:

Both sweet potato and white potato were first grown by the Incas in Peru, and once European invaders brought the potato to Europe, they gained universal fame. Sweet potato is not connected to white potato, even though the term 'potato' is added after the word 'sweet.'

Sweet potatoes come from the morning glory plant family, while white potatoes come from the nightshade tuberosum family. As a result, the vegetables cannot be substituted for one another when cooking.

Health and Nutrition Comparison:

Because potatoes are used to make junk foods like chips and French fries, they are sometimes mistaken for a 'not so healthy food.' This is not the case, as potatoes are a very nutritious vegetable.

In terms of macronutrients, 100 grams of sweet potato and potato contain the same amount of lipids, protein, and carbohydrates, as well as an equal number of calories. Except for potassium and magnesium, sweet potatoes have a higher amount of vitamins and minerals than other vegetables. Both types contain plant chemicals that are healthy for the body. White potatoes include glycoalkaloids, which have anticancer qualities, and sweet potatoes have antioxidants that prevent cell damage.

The Glycemic Index:

The glycemic index of foods has recently become a hot topic. The glycemic index is a relative ranking of foods based on how they affect blood glucose levels, which is becoming more common as the number of diabetes patients rises. When compared to foods with a lower GI, foods with a GI of 70 or above cause a rapid spike in blood sugar. Sweet potatoes can have a GI of 44-94 depending on how they're cooked, but a baked white potato has a GI of 89. Sweet potatoes are good for those with diabetes and other blood sugar problems since they have a lower glycemic index.

The Verdict:

Sweet potatoes and white potatoes are both nutrient-dense foods with health benefits. Sweet potato, on the other hand, takes the prize for being slightly healthier than normal potatoes. It has more fiber and is higher in most micronutrients.

It contains fewer calories and has a lower glycemic index, making it better for blood sugar control. Also, sweet potato has its own flavor, making it much more enjoyable to eat alone.