If you’ve followed journalist and National Geographic explorer Dan Buettner’s Blue Zones, you know that one of the regions in the world where people live longer, and live healthier, is Okinawa, Japan.
There are many reasons, but one of them may be a simple vegetable that is a staple of their diet: the Japanese sweet potato, also known as imo. As reported here, “After a decade long study of the Okinawan people, researchers confirmed that all Okinawans aged 90 and over reportedly ate an average of half a kilo of purple sweet potatoes per day.” That translates to a little over one pound per day.
Of course, the Okinawans have other longevity-promoting habits, like regular physical exercise (not in a gym, but as part of their everyday activities), a positive mindset and strong social networks.
But there’s no question that the purple sweet potato is a powerful longevity-booster all by itself. It contains anthocyanins, which help keep cells healthy at the microscopic level. From the article: “They line the cell walls, acting as a protective barrier against harmful microbes and pathogens.”
But that’s just for starters.
They’re also low in calories and a good source of fiber – so you feel full longer compared to other starchy foods.
In one cup, they provide 500% of your daily vitamin A needs, and 700 mg. of potassium, which counters the harmful effects of sodium and contributes to lower blood pressure.
They’re rich in B vitamins, including B6, thiamin, folate, and riboflavin. They’re also high in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory vitamins like C and E.
That’s a lot of benefit for one vegetable.
How do you prepare them? A tried and true method is simply baking them, and then if desired, drizzle with some almond butter or tahini. They can also be added to stews, soups and curries. For more delicious ideas, go here and here.