Sweetpotato vs potato: is sweetpotato better than potato?

When it comes to the nutritional debate of sweetpotato vs potato, both bring a variety of health benefits to the table. They’re both starchy vegetables packed with essential nutrients like potassium, vitamins B and C. But when it comes to overall health benefits, sweetpotato takes the lead. Not only do they contain more fibre, but they also have a lower glycaemic index than white potatoes, meaning that they lead to a slower, steadier rise in blood sugar which is ideal for those managing blood sugar levels or aiming for weight loss. Their higher fibre content also helps with digestion and contributes to feeling fuller for longer, which is particularly helpful for those focusing on weight loss goals.

If you are comparing sweetpotatoes vs potatoes in calories, sweetpotatoes generally come in slightly lower (this is of course dependent on how they are cooked). They are especially lower in calories when they are boiled or baked, making them a go to for those researching sweetpotato vs potato weight loss options.

So, when posed the question is sweetpotato better than potato nutritionally? The answer is in most cases, yes. While both are healthy in moderation, sweetpotatoes offer extra fibre, antioxidants, and fewer spikes in blood sugar.

When investigating the health benefits in the sweetpotato vs potato comparison, sweepotatoes come out on top. Packed with antioxidants, sweetpotatoes support immune function, skin health, and even eye health – something white potatoes can’t match.

Compared to white potatoes, sweetpotatoes are naturally anti-inflammatory and have been linked to improve heart health, better gut function, and reduced blood sugar spikes, making them a smart choice to steady energy levels.

If you are wondering is sweetpotato better than potato when it comes to measuring their health benefits, their range of health boosting properties makes a compelling case.

When it comes to versatility in the kitchen, the sweetpotato vs potato debate heats up. As we know, both can be roasted, mashed, or boiled or turned into crispy fries, making them staples in countless savoury dishes. But what gives sweetpotato its versatility is their natural sweetness. Unlike white potatoes, which often rely on added fats, salt or creamy toppings to enhance their flavour, sweetpotatoes are satisfying on their own because of their natural added sugars. This can significantly reduce the total calorie count of a meal.

Sweetpotatoes effortlessly cross over into their desserts and sweet dishes. For example, our Sweetpotato muffins and Shredded Sweetpotato Pancake recipes demonstrate just how perfectly sweetpotatoes can be used in sweet dishes. Whether you’re making a comforting dinner like this Vegan Sweetpotato Peanut Curry or a wholesome treat like these Sweetpotato Nachos, sweetpotatoes offer endless creative possibilities that white potatoes simply can’t match. The natural sweetness in sweetpotatoes can help curb sugar cravings, making them a smart swap in sweet or savoury meals for anyone trying stay on track with healthier eating. Our recipe page contains plenty more sweet and savoury ways to cook with sweetpotatoes.

When comparing sweetpotatoes and white potatoes, it’s important to consider how they’re actually consumed. The nutritional value of both sweetpotatoes and white potatoes can vary significantly depending on how they’re cooked. Boiling, for instance, is one of the healthiest preparations in both types as it doesn’t add any extra fats. However, even when boiled, sweetpotatoes offer more dietary fibre, vitamin A and antioxidants than their counterparts.

Baking is also another common method that preserves most nutrients, but again sweetpotatoes retain more of their micronutrients when baked. In contrast, frying drastically increases the calorie fat content of both, often stripping away the health benefits. In general, white potatoes are more commonly consumed in these hight-fat forms. Sweetpotatoes, on the other hand, tend to be enjoyed roasted or baked with minimal ingredients, allowing them to maintain their nutritional value and fit more seamlessly into a more balanced, health-conscious diet. For this reason, they are also a popular choice in many specialised eating plans, from plant based to paleo, thanks their natural nutrient density. So, for those looking to manage weight, sweetpotatoes offer a lower calorie and more nutrient dense option.

While both sweetpotatoes and white potatoes offer valuable nutrients, sweetpotatoes consistently come out on top when it comes to diet and overall health benefits. They’re lower on the glycaemic index, higher in fibre, and packed with essential vitamins like beta-carotene. Not only are they more versatile in healthy recipes, but their natural sweetness means they often require fewer added ingredients – making them easier to keep nutritious. Even when prepared using the same cooking methods, sweet potatoes tend to retain more of their health benefits and are more commonly consumed in cleaner, diet-friendly ways. So, whether you’re focusing on weight management, balanced eating, or simply making smarter food swaps, sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious choice worth adding to your plate.