For years we’ve all heard the pros and cons of sweet potatoes and white potatoes and the debate over which one is healthier. Lets first talk about what we’ve all been told; which is, white potatoes are too high in carbs and sweet potatoes are a super food. What if I told you both of those are completely wrong? The truth is, white and sweet potatoes provide an array of nutrients when eaten as part of a healthy nutrition plan.
Here are the nutrition facts about each:
| White Potato | Nutrition Facts | Sweet Potato |
| 161 | Calories | 103 |
| 4.3g | Protein | 2.3g |
| 0.2g | Fat | 0.2g |
| 36.6g | Carbs | 23.6g |
| Percent daily recommended intake | ||
| 0% | Vitamin A | 438% |
| 28% | Vitamin C | 37% |
| 27% | Vitamin B6 | 16% |
| 12% | Folate (B9) | 2% |
| 7% | Thiamin (B1) | 8% |
| 5% | Riboflavin (B2) | 7% |
| 12% | Niacin (B3) | 8% |
| 7% | Pantothenic Acid (B5) | 10% |
| 12% | Magnesium | 8% |
| 12% | Phosphorus | 6% |
| 26% | Potassium | 15% |
| 10% | Iron | 4% |
| 10% | Copper | 9% |
| 19% | Manganese | 28% |
Benefits of eating potatoes and sweet potatoes
- Both help you feel full
- Eating them gives you a well balanced variety of carbs
- Provide you consistent and slow-burning energy
- Help you achieve health and fitness goals
How to prepare white and sweet potatoes
The healthiest way to prepare either type of potato is to boil, roast, or bake and season with a little olive oil and herbs. Occasionally, you can add butter or sour cream for variety, but try to use those sparingly. Avoid making mashed potatoes with cream and butter, bacon, fried, or in the form of chips. These turn an otherwise healthy food into a unhealthy option. Try a serving size of about one cupped handful (roughly 3/4 cup) for best results and enjoy eating them guilt free!
myNutritionFitness 