What are the nutritional differences between a potato and sweet potato?

While both potatoes and sweet potatoes are starchy root vegetables, they differ significantly in their nutritional profiles:

Potatoes:

* Lower in Calories and Fat: Potatoes are generally lower in calories and fat than sweet potatoes.

* More Potassium: They are a good source of potassium, which is important for regulating blood pressure and muscle function.

* Higher in Vitamin C: Potatoes provide a decent amount of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production.

* Good Source of Fiber: Potatoes contain some fiber, which aids in digestion and helps promote a feeling of fullness.

Sweet Potatoes:

* Higher in Calories and Fiber: Sweet potatoes are higher in calories and fiber than regular potatoes.

* Rich in Beta-Carotene: They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune function, and cell growth.

* Higher in Antioxidants: Sweet potatoes are packed with antioxidants, which can protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

* Good Source of Vitamin B6: Sweet potatoes provide a good amount of vitamin B6, which is important for metabolism and brain function.

* Contains More Iron and Manganese: Sweet potatoes have more iron and manganese than regular potatoes.

Here's a table summarizing the key differences:

| Nutrient | Potato | Sweet Potato |

|---|---|---|

| Calories (per 100g) | 77 | 86 |

| Fat (per 100g) | 0.1g | 0.1g |

| Fiber (per 100g) | 2g | 3g |

| Potassium (per 100g) | 421mg | 337mg |

| Vitamin C (per 100g) | 19.7mg | 16.3mg |

| Beta-carotene (per 100g) | 0.06mg | 9553 mcg |

| Vitamin A (per 100g) | 0 IU | 1110 IU |

| Vitamin B6 (per 100g) | 0.2mg | 0.4mg |

| Iron (per 100g) | 0.6mg | 0.7mg |

| Manganese (per 100g) | 0.1mg | 0.3mg |

Overall:

Both potatoes and sweet potatoes are healthy vegetables, offering a range of nutrients. Sweet potatoes are generally considered more nutritious due to their high content of beta-carotene, vitamin A, and antioxidants.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual dietary needs and preferences.