Lately there is a perception that carbohydrates must be shunned in all forms. Weight watchers and health freaks are keeping away from this macronutrient, which is feared and despised as it is believed to lead to weight gain and as a result, numerous other health problems. However, a number of studies have shown that diets which restrict consumption of an entire food group are not only impractical, but unhealthy as well. However, if one wants to maintain a healthy weight, they need to distinguish between healthy and unhealthy carbohydrates and while the former must be included in daily meals, the latter should be shunned. Bollywood actor Shraddha Kapoor doesn't shy away from consuming carbohydrates.
Shraddha Kapoor posted a picture of herself consuming a bowlful of spiced sweet potatoes, which are a high carb food. Sweet potatoes, or shakarkandi, are considered as healthier alternatives for white potatoes, but they are also very rich in carbohydrates. A 100-gm portion of sweet potatoes contains between 18 and 20 grams of carbs (as per the United States Department of Agriculture data)! But these carbs are healthy and may actually help in weight loss, rather than restrict it.
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Take a look at Shraddha Kapoor's bowl of healthy carb-rich sweet potatoes:
Here's how the healthy carbohydrate-rich sweet potato can help in weight loss and improve overall health:
1. As opposed to white potatoes that contain 2.2 gm of fibre per 100 gm serving, a 100 gm portion of sweet potatoes contains between 3 to 4 gm of fibre. Fibre is important for digestive health and gut health.
2. Fibre contributes positively to gut microbiome, which may improve hormonal balance, mood, as well as skin health.
Also Read: 11 Best Sweet Potato Recipes | Easy Sweet Potato Recipes
3. Sweet potatoes are also very rich in potassium (a 100-gm portion contains 337 mg potassium as per the USDA data). Potassium is helpful in improving metabolism and enhancing muscle strength, which makes them ideal pre-workout snacks.
It is pertinent here to mention that since sweet potatoes are rich in carbs, you can't be having them whenever you feel like and in large portions. It's better to follow Shraddha Kapoor's lead and eat a small portion that is either boiled or baked and as a standalone filling snack. Consult your nutritionist or a certified dietitian in order to ascertain the portion size and to include sweet potatoes in your diet in a healthy way.