We all know that eating vegetables regularly can help us get healthy and glowing skin. It is also important to consume a variety of vegetables, so as to ensure the intake of different nutrients. Leafy vegetables are one of the single most important food categories for skin health. But there are many other common veggies that are also great options. One such root vegetable is the sweet potato. Also called Shakarkandi, sweet potatoes are packed with a range of health benefits that includes many advantages for your skin. Find out more below.
Also Read: 6 Foods High In Vitamin K That Are Good For Your Skin
Here Are 5 Incredible Beauty Benefits Of Sweet Potatoes:
1. Protects from sun damage
Sweet potatoes are one of the best sources of beta-carotene, a compound that is later converted into active vitamin A. This antioxidant is known to protect the skin from sun damage.
2. Can give you radiant skin
Consuming foods with beta-carotene may also give your skin a warm and glowing look. Additionally, the antioxidants in sweet potatoes can also help reduce free radical damage, contributing to long-term skin health.
3. May have anti-ageing effects
Sweet potatoes contain vitamin C. This vitamin plays a key role in the synthesis of collagen, which impacts skin elasticity and other aspects. Vitamin A is also known to help prevent wrinkles and dry skin. So if you want supple and youthful skin, you better add this veggie to your diet.
4. Can help reduce blemishes
Sweet potatoes have anthocyanins that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They can help avoid blemishes and dark spots. Research also suggests that these potatoes can have anti-cancer effects.
5. Great for your hair:
The beta-carotene content of sweet potatoes can also help reduce hair fall and hair thinning. Apart from vitamins A and C, this veggie also provides vitamins B and E as well as minerals such as potassium, manganese, etc. These nutrients can boost the health as well as the appearance of your hair.
Also Read: 5 Types Of Seeds That Are Good For Your Skin
How To Consume Sweet Potatoes For Skincare And Hair Health?
Sweet potatoes can be added to your diet in various ways - in the form of snacks, soups, sabzi/ rice preparations and even as a chaat. It is preferable to bake or roast them, in order to preserve their nutrients. Frying them will not only increase the calorie count but also reduce the overall nutritional value of the dish. Click here to find healthy and interesting ways to consume sweet potatoes, along with easy recipes.
Sweet potatoes may also be applied externally, in the form of face masks or otherwise, to deal with particular skin issues. However, as discussed, making them a regular part of your diet can provide internal nourishment that can also translate into external benefits.
Also Read: Tired of Dark Circles? 5 Nutrients You Must Eat Every Single Day
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
About Toshita SahniToshita is fuelled by wordplay, wanderlust, wonderment and Alliteration. When she is not blissfully contemplating her next meal, she enjoys reading novels and roaming around the city.