1 Introduction

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas [L.] Lam) are increasingly recognized for their exceptional nutritional and functional properties. They are rich in bioactive carbohydrates, proteins, carotenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and minerals, which are found in both the leaves and roots of the plant (Wang et al., 2016; Alam, 2021; Laveriano-Santos et al., 2022). The orange-fleshed varieties are particularly noted for their high β-carotene content, while the purple-fleshed varieties are rich in anthocyanins. These diverse nutrients contribute to the sweet potato's status as a nutrient-dense food, making it a valuable component of the human diet.

Nutritional research plays a crucial role in understanding how foods like sweet potatoes can contribute to disease prevention. The bioactive compounds in sweet potatoes have been shown to offer a range of health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, and anti-obesity effects (Escobar-Puentes et al., 2022). For instance, the high β-carotene content in orange-fleshed sweet potatoes is essential for preventing vitamin A deficiency, a significant public health issue in many developing countries (Neela and Fanta, 2019; Alam et al., 2020). The anthocyanins in purple-fleshed varieties have been linked to improved cardiovascular health and reduced cancer risk. Understanding these health benefits is vital for developing dietary recommendations and interventions aimed at reducing the incidence of chronic diseases.

This study will compile and quantify the key nutritional components of various sweet potato varieties and their contributions to human health. It will analyze the roles of sweet potatoes in physiological mechanisms such as antioxidant defense and metabolic regulation, exploring their potential value in preventing chronic diseases. Additionally, the study will assess the associations between sweet potato intake and specific health outcomes, identifying nutrients and dosages with significant health benefits to better incorporate sweet potatoes into dietary strategies for promoting health and preventing disease.

2 Nutritional Composition of Sweet Potato

2.1 Macronutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats

Sweet potatoes are a rich source of macronutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The carbohydrate content is particularly high, making sweet potatoes a significant energy source. They contain complex carbohydrates, which are beneficial for sustained energy release (Wang et al., 2016; Alam, 2021). The protein content, although lower than that of legumes, is still notable, with variations observed among different sweet potato varieties. The fat content in sweet potatoes is minimal, but the presence of essential fatty acids has been reported.

2.2 Micronutrients: vitamins and minerals

Sweet potatoes are abundant in essential micronutrients, particularly vitamins and minerals. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP) are especially rich in β-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, which is crucial for vision and immune function (Neela and Fanta, 2019). Sweet potatoes contain significant amounts of vitamin C, which is vital for collagen synthesis and immune defense. The mineral content includes potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc, which are essential for various physiological functions (Muhammad et al., 2022). The high β-carotene content in OFSP varieties makes them an excellent dietary source to combat vitamin A deficiency.

2.3 Bioactive compounds: antioxidants and phytochemicals

Sweet potatoes are rich in bioactive compounds, including antioxidants and phytochemicals, which contribute to their health-promoting properties. These compounds include carotenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids (Laveriano-Santos et al., 2022; Huang, 2024). The antioxidant properties of these compounds help in neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation (Figure 1) (Senthilkumar et al., 2020). Purple-fleshed sweet potatoes are particularly high in anthocyanins, which have been linked to cardiovascular health and anti-cancer properties. The presence of these bioactive compounds underscores the potential of sweet potatoes in preventing chronic diseases and promoting overall health.

Figure 1 Beneficial health effects of bioactive compounds from sweet potatoes (Adopted from Laveriano-Santos et al., 2022)

Carotenoids in sweet potato, particularly beta-carotene, are abundant in yellow and orange varieties. These compounds help neutralize free radicals due to their antioxidant properties, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Not only do they enhance antioxidant capacity, but they also serve as an important source of vitamin A, contributing to vision health and immune function. Anthocyanins, another powerful antioxidant, have a free radical scavenging ability that surpasses many common antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E. Phenolic acids in sweet potato, especially chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid, also exhibit strong antioxidant properties. These phenolic acids work synergistically with anthocyanins, enhancing their stability and antioxidant effects. The presence of phenolic acids helps inhibit lipid peroxidation, reduces cellular damage caused by oxidative stress, and thus protects cardiovascular health.

3 Health Benefits of Key Nutrients in Sweet Potato

3.1 Role of dietary fiber in digestive health and metabolic regulation

Dietary fiber from sweet potatoes plays a significant role in promoting digestive health and regulating metabolic processes. Sweet potato fiber has been shown to enhance the antioxidant capacity and immune status in various organs, as well as regulate antioxidant-related signaling molecules. Dietary fiber from sweet potato residues has been found to promote a healthy gut microbiome profile by increasing beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, while reducing harmful bacteria like Enterobacillus and Clostridium perfringens (Liu et al., 2020). This prebiotic effect contributes to improved digestion and absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, as evidenced by increased production of short-chain fatty acids like propionate and butyrate, which are beneficial for gut health.

3.2 Antioxidant effects of beta-carotene and vitamin C

Sweet potatoes, particularly the orange-fleshed varieties, are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, which has potent antioxidant properties. Beta-carotene helps in neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and preventing cellular damage (Alam, 2021; Laveriano-Santos et al., 2022). Vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant found in sweet potatoes, works synergistically with beta-carotene to enhance the body's antioxidant defense system. These antioxidants contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders by protecting cells from oxidative damage (Fang et al., 2017).

3.3 Anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanins and other phytochemicals

Anthocyanins, predominantly found in purple-fleshed sweet potatoes, exhibit strong anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds have been shown to inhibit fat accumulation and reduce triglyceride levels, which are crucial in managing obesity and related metabolic disorders (Kim et al., 2020). Anthocyanins and other polyphenols from sweet potatoes can modulate the gut microbiota, enhancing the production of beneficial metabolites and reducing inflammation (Kilua et al., 2020). The anti-inflammatory effects of sweet potato phytochemicals extend to the regulation of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, contributing to overall immune health and reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases.

4 Disease Prevention Potential of Sweet Potato

4.1 Cardiovascular health benefits and risk reduction

Sweet potatoes have been shown to offer significant cardiovascular health benefits due to their rich content of bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds exhibit strong antioxidant properties, which help in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, key factors in cardiovascular diseases (CVD) (Alam, 2021; Escobar-Puentes et al, 2022). Epidemiological studies have indicated that regular consumption of vegetables, including sweet potatoes, is inversely related to the risk of CVD. The cardioprotective effects are attributed to the regulation of blood pressure, lipid profiles, and blood glucose levels, as well as the modulation of relevant enzyme activities and gene expression (Tang et al., 2017).

4.2 Role in cancer prevention through antioxidant mechanisms

Sweet potatoes, particularly the orange-fleshed and purple-fleshed varieties, are rich in antioxidants such as β-carotene and anthocyanins, respectively. These antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, thereby reducing the risk of cancer. The phenolic compounds in sweet potatoes have been shown to exhibit anti-cancer properties by inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis. The bioactive compounds in sweet potatoes can modulate various signaling pathways involved in cancer progression, making them a valuable dietary component for cancer prevention (Ayeleso et al., 2018).

4.3 Sweet potato in managing diabetes and blood sugar levels

4.3.1 Selection and application of low-glycemic index sweet potato varieties

Low-GI varieties of sweet potatoes, such as the orange-fleshed and purple-fleshed types, are particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes. These varieties release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. The selection of these low-GI varieties can be an effective strategy in dietary management for diabetes (Istri et al., 2023).

4.3.2 Impact of dietary fiber in sweet potato on blood sugar stabilization

The high dietary fiber content in sweet potatoes contributes to their ability to stabilize blood sugar levels. Dietary fiber slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, leading to a gradual increase in blood glucose levels. This property is particularly beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes, as it helps in maintaining glycemic control (Tian et al., 2016; Alam, 2021).

4.3.3 Use of sweet potato extracts in blood glucose-lowering products

Sweet potato extracts, particularly those derived from the leaves and roots, have shown promising results in lowering blood glucose levels. Studies have demonstrated that these extracts can improve insulin sensitivity and modulate the expression of genes associated with glucose metabolism. The presence of polyphenols in sweet potato extracts enhances their antioxidant capacity, further contributing to their anti-diabetic effects (Ayeleso et al., 2018; Luo et al., 2021). The use of sweet potato extracts in functional foods and supplements could be a potential therapeutic approach for managing diabetes (Nguyen et al., 2021).

5 Case Studies on Sweet Potato in Health and Nutrition

5.1 Case study: sweet potato consumption in cardiovascular health interventions

Sweet potatoes have been identified as a significant source of bioactive compounds that contribute to cardiovascular health. The presence of anthocyanins, particularly in purple sweet potatoes, has been shown to improve lipid metabolism and reduce oxidative stress, which are critical factors in cardiovascular health (Jiang et al., 2020). The consumption of sweet potatoes has been linked to improved endothelial function and reduced inflammation, which are essential for maintaining cardiovascular health (Akhavan et al., 2022). These findings suggest that incorporating sweet potatoes into the diet could be beneficial for individuals at risk of cardiovascular diseases.

5.2 Case study: impact of sweet potato on blood sugar regulation in diabetic patients

Istri et al. (2023) analyzed the potential mechanisms by which sweet potato regulates blood glucose in diabetic patients and highlighted the roles of various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, caffeoyl derivatives, and quinic acid. These components exert positive metabolic effects on the liver, pancreas, skeletal muscle, and adipose tissue through multiple pathways. In the liver, sweet potato constituents can activate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, enhance glucose sensitivity, and regulate gluconeogenesis, thereby promoting glucose utilization and reducing glucose production. In the pancreas, flavonoids can improve the function of pancreatic β-cells, increase insulin secretion, and reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory damage, thus preserving pancreatic structure. In skeletal muscle, anthocyanins and flavonoids enhance insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake by activating the PI3K/AKT/GLUT4 signaling pathway. In adipose tissue, these bioactive compounds help regulate GLUT4 and the PI3K/AKT pathway, promoting glucose uptake and improving insulin resistance. Together, these mechanisms significantly lower glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood glucose levels, body weight, and insulin resistance, thereby preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes and its complications (Figure 2).

Figure 2 Chemical components, anti diabetes activity and mechanism action of Ipomoea batatas (Adopted from Istri et al., 2023)

Purple sweet potato anthocyanins have been shown to improve glucose tolerance and lipid metabolism in diabetic mice, indicating their potential as a dietary supplement for diabetes management. Sweet potato leaf polyphenols have been found to enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce fasting blood glucose levels, making them a promising natural product for diabetes treatment (Luo et al., 2021). Clinical trials have also demonstrated that white sweet potato-based enteral nutrition formulas can improve glycemic control and nutritional status in elderly diabetic patients (Chen et al., 2019).

5.3 Case study: sweet potato’s role in dietary programs for cancer prevention

Sweet potatoes are rich in bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been associated with anti-cancer properties. The antioxidant activity of these compounds helps in reducing oxidative stress, a known risk factor for cancer development (Alam, 2021). Studies have shown that the consumption of sweet potatoes can modulate the expression of genes associated with type 2 diabetes and oxidative stress, which are also relevant in cancer prevention (Ayeleson et al., 2018). The diverse nutrients present in sweet potatoes, including vitamins and minerals, contribute to their potential role in cancer prevention by supporting overall health and reducing the risk of lifestyle-related diseases.

6 Variation in Nutritional Value Across Sweet Potato Varieties

6.1 Nutritional differences between orange, purple, and white varieties

Sweet potato varieties exhibit significant nutritional differences based on their flesh color. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSP) are particularly noted for their high β-carotene content, which is a precursor to vitamin A and essential for preventing vitamin A deficiency (Neela and Fanta, 2019). In contrast, purple-fleshed sweet potatoes (PFSP) are rich in anthocyanins, which have potent antioxidant properties. White-fleshed sweet potatoes (WFSP), while lacking in β-carotene, contain higher levels of carbohydrates and phenolics compared to OFSP.

For instance, a study comparing different sweet potato varieties found that OFSP had the highest levels of moisture, fat, ash, and several minerals such as calcium and iron in both peeled and unpeeled conditions (Dako et al., 2016). Another study highlighted that PFSP had significantly higher total phenolic content, which was about two to five times greater than other varieties, and also contained anthocyanins, which were absent in other varieties. WFSP, on the other hand, showed higher carbohydrate and reducing sugar content (Shekhar et al., 2015).

6.2 Impact of Growing Conditions and Harvesting Practices

Growing conditions and harvesting practices significantly influence the nutritional content of sweet potatoes. Environmental factors such as soil type, climate, and agricultural practices can lead to variations in nutrient composition among different sweet potato varieties (Xu and Sun, 2024). For example, a study conducted in Virginia found that the nutritional quality and antioxidant activities of sweet potatoes varied significantly among fourteen different varieties grown under the same conditions, indicating that genetic factors also play a crucial role (Cartier et al, 2017).

Moreover, the timing of harvest can affect the nutrient retention in sweet potatoes. A study on sweet potato varieties grown in Ghana showed that the nutrient content, including protein, fat, and carbohydrate levels, varied significantly among varieties harvested at the same time, suggesting that both genetic and environmental factors contribute to these differences (Ayimbire et al., 2018).

6.3 Nutrient retention in cooking and processing methods

The method of cooking and processing sweet potatoes can significantly impact their nutrient retention. Various studies have shown that different cooking methods such as boiling, steaming, baking, and frying can lead to varying degrees of nutrient loss. For instance, boiling and steaming were found to retain higher amounts of β-carotene in OFSP compared to frying and pressure cooking, which resulted in greater nutrient loss.

A study on Ethiopian sweet potato cultivars revealed that boiling, roasting, steaming, and frying had no significant effect on crude protein and ash content but did affect vitamin C levels, with roasting showing the most significant reduction (Mekonen et al., 2022). Another study on home-processed sweet potatoes indicated that baking, boiling, and steaming retained higher levels of all-trans-β-carotene compared to pressure cooking, sautéing, and frying (Kim et al., 2015).

7 Practical Applications and Dietary Recommendations

7.1 Integrating sweet potato into a balanced diet

Sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are a versatile and nutrient-dense food that can be easily integrated into a balanced diet. They are rich in bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and various vitamins and minerals, which contribute to their health-promoting properties. The orange-fleshed varieties, in particular, are an excellent source of β-carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A and essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function (Laurie et al., 2017; Neela and Fanta, 2019). Purple-fleshed sweet potatoes are notable for their high anthocyanin content, which has potent antioxidant properties. Including sweet potatoes in meals can enhance the nutritional quality of the diet and provide a range of health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and better blood sugar regulation (Wang et al., 2016).

7.2 Recommendations for daily intake and serving sizes

To maximize the health benefits of sweet potatoes, it is recommended to consume them regularly as part of a balanced diet. For adults, a serving size of about 100 g-150 g of cooked sweet potato per day is suggested, which can provide a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of vitamins A and C, fiber, and other essential nutrients 158. For children, especially in regions with high rates of vitamin A deficiency, incorporating 66 g of orange-fleshed sweet potato can meet the daily vitamin A requirements for children aged 1-3 years. It is important to consider the method of preparation, as boiling and steaming can help retain most of the nutrients, while frying may increase the resistant starch content but also add unnecessary fats (Zaheer and Akhtar, 2016; Robertson et al., 2018).

7.3 Sweet potato-based products and supplements

The development of sweet potato-based products and supplements offers additional ways to incorporate this nutritious food into the diet. Products such as sweet potato flour, chips, and purees can be used in various culinary applications, providing convenience and versatility (Escobar-Puentes et al., 2022). Sweet potato leaves, which are rich in bioactive compounds, can be used in salads, soups, and smoothies to further enhance dietary intake of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. For athletes, sweet potato-based nutritional products, including bars, beverages, and powders, have been shown to improve physical performance and recovery, making them a valuable addition to sports nutrition (Kostrakiewicz-Gierałt, 2021). These products not only provide essential nutrients but also offer functional benefits that support overall health and well-being.

Acknowledgments
I am deeply grateful to Professor R. Cai for his multiple reviews of this paper and for his constructive revision suggestions.

Conflict of Interest Disclosure

The author affirms that this research was conducted without any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

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