Camote – Sweet Potatoes

Camote - Sweet Potatoes are a starchy vegetable, native to Costa Rica and Central America. Since they are readily available locally, they are extremely affordable food. As a result of being roots by nature, camote - sweet potatoes easily absorb nutrients in the earth. Some nutrients found in sweet potatoes include vitamin C, potassium, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B6, manganese, magnesium, and copper. They are also high in fiber. Not only are camote - sweet potatoes high in vitamins, but they taste great too.

We enjoy making camote chips, mashed sweet potatoes, and adding them to soups. However, the easiest way to prepare camote as a side is to toss it in the electric pressure cooker. Once they are cooked, you can eat them as is or simply mash them.

Health benefits of Camote - Sweet Potatoes include:
1. Strengthens Immune System- through high levels of vitamins A and C.
2. Promotes Skin and Bone Health- as a result of being high in manganese, which helps build collagen.
3. Protects Against Aging and Disease- due to Vitamins A and C functioning as antioxidants that help protect cells.
4. Helps Reduce the Risk of Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Cancer– with high amounts of anti-inflammatory compounds.
5. Helps Control Sugar and Insulin Spikes - because the high fiber content makes them a slow-burning starch.
6. Helps Lower Blood Pressure – as a result of being high in potassium, which helps regulate heart rhythm.
7. Helps Promote Weight Loss– by containing resistant starch, a filling, fiber-like substance that your body doesn’t digest and absorb.