### Can People with Diabetes Safely Eat Sweet Potatoes? Yes, people with diabetes can eat sweet potatoes, but it's important to do so in moderation. Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to any diet. However, they also have a higher carbohydrate content, which can affect blood sugar levels. #### Types of Sweet Potatoes - **Orange Sweet Potatoes**: These are the most common in U.S. supermarkets. They have a higher glycemic index (GI) compared to other varieties, which means they can raise blood sugar levels more quickly. Boiling them instead of baking can lower their GI. - **Purple Sweet Potatoes**: These have a lower glycemic load (GL) and contain anthocyanins, which may help improve insulin resistance and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. - **Japanese Sweet Potatoes**: Also known as Satsuma Imo, these contain caiapo, which has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels and cholesterol. #### Tips for Eating Sweet Potatoes - **Portion Size**: Always opt for a medium-sized sweet potato to avoid consuming too many carbohydrates. - **Cooking Method**: Boiling or steaming sweet potatoes is better than baking, as it helps to lower their GI. - **Moderation**: Even though sweet potatoes are nutritious, they should be eaten in moderation to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. #### Recipes Here are some diabetes-friendly recipes you can try: - Boiled sweet potato salad - Steamed sweet potato with herbs - Sweet potato and vegetable stir-fry In summary, sweet potatoes can be a part of a diabetes-friendly diet when eaten in moderation and prepared in a way that minimizes their impact on blood sugar levels.