Sweet potatoes are undeniably one of the healthiest meals you can consume. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and protein, and other elements that are beneficial to your body. However, out of all of the macro and micronutrients in sweet potatoes, there is one nutrient in particular that provides a significant health benefit: vitamin A.
Here's why you should be concerned about the number one adverse effect of sweet potatoes and vitamin A consumption.
Why is getting enough vitamin A in your diet so important?
According to the USDA, one cup of diced sweet potato delivers 377 percent of the daily required vitamin A requirement. Yes, that figure is accurate. The beta carotene in sweet potatoes boosts vitamin A, which your body converts to vitamin A. Carrots, butternut squash, and even bell peppers contain beta carotene, which is present in a variety of orange and yellow veggies.
Beta carotene is known to benefit your body in various ways, including increased vision, brain health, lung health, and even skin health. However, the cancer-fighting capabilities of beta carotene in sweet potatoes are one of the most significant adverse effects. According to a study published in the journal Diseases, antioxidant-rich foods can help protect your body against the development of some types of malignancies. One of the antioxidants that give your body this kind of protection is beta carotene.
Can you overdo it on vitamin A?
ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH, Vitamin A's recommended daily amount (RDA) for men is 900 micrograms and 700 micrograms for women. One roasted sweet potato with the skin has 1,403 micrograms of vitamin A, more than double the daily requirement.According to studies, taking too much vitamin, A might harm your health and lead to hypervitaminosis A. According to Healthline, this means that excess vitamin A accumulates in your liver and can cause vitamin A toxicity over time.
So, should we stay away from sweet potatoes? Certainly not. According to Harvard Health, this research suggests that overdoing vitamin A supplements excessively than diet causes vitamin A toxicity. That sweet potato is still entirely safe for your body to absorb, and as previously said, it has numerous health benefits.
The only negative side effect of eating too many sweet potatoes at once is yellow skin discoloration. However, we have a feeling you'll consume the proper number of sweet potatoes at the right time. One serving for a person is usually one cup of cubed sweet potatoes or one medium-sized sweet potato.