New Delhi, October 29 (Udaipur Kiran) — As winter approaches, sweet potatoes (shakarkand) start appearing in local markets across India. Soft and earthy in taste, this seasonal root vegetable is not only delicious but also loaded with essential nutrients that make it a winter superfood.
According to Ayurveda, sweet potato helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas and is considered part of the sattvic diet, which makes it suitable for consumption during fasting. Its scientific name is Ipomoea batatas, and it is commonly known as sweet potato or meetha aaloo in India. Despite its natural sweetness, it can be safely eaten in moderation by people with diabetes, as it has a low glycaemic impact.
Rich in beta-carotene, vitamin B-complex, vitamin C, and iron, sweet potato provides multiple health benefits. It aids digestion, helps relieve constipation, and supports gut health. It can be enjoyed boiled or roasted, both of which retain its nutritional value.
Sweet potato also helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). In Ayurveda, its root is used for urinary issues, while consuming the cooked tuber or its soup can provide relief from burning sensations and difficulty in urination.
The beta-carotene content in sweet potato contributes to healthy skin and hair, helping reduce dark spots and improving natural glow. It can also be used externally as a face pack by grinding raw sweet potato into a smooth paste.
Moreover, the potassium present in sweet potato helps keep the heart healthy by lowering bad cholesterol levels and reducing cardiac strain.
Regular consumption of sweet potato during winter not only boosts immunity and maintains body warmth but also helps the body fight seasonal infections — keeping you energised, nourished, and healthy throughout the cold months.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
