Sweet potatoes are known for their incredible flavour and are extremely easy to prepare. They are also high in nutrients, making them a must-have food for the dinner table.

Here are three great reasons to eat more sweet potatoes:

1. They’re high in vitamin A
Sweet potatoes are the best food source of vitamin A. They contain more than four times your daily requirement in a one-cup serving. The vitamin exists in a form called beta-carotene, which is best absorbed by the body when paired with a source of fat. So go ahead and add a dab of butter or dash of olive oil to the vegetable.

2. Boiled sweet potatoes have low glycemic index
That means they don’t raise blood sugar levels as much as white potatoes. Low glycemic index (GI) foods are digested and absorbed more slowly by the body, which prevents the sudden rise in blood sugar and insulin levels. Sweet potatoes, with a GI of 44, are a great option for people with diabetes who can’t eat white potatoes, which have a GI of 54.

3. They help your body absorb iron
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, the essential nutrient that helps your body absorb iron from plant-based foods such as leafy greens, legumes and grains. Want a super nutritious salad? Pair quinoa with chickpeas, spinach and diced sweet potatoes.

Be sure to try out some of our delicious sweet potato recipes:
Beef and Sweet Potato Stir-Fry
Chicken and Sweet Potato Simmer
Roasted Sweet Potato Wedges

This story was originally titled "Why We Love Sweet Potatoes" in the February 2013 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!