What are the nutritional benefits of red-fleshed sweet potatoes (watermelon sweet potatoes)?
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
In general, the watermelon red sweet potato is highly nutritious, primarily due to its richness in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, β-carotene, various vitamins, and abundant minerals. Additionally, it can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as steaming, boiling, or roasting; frying is not recommended to preserve its nutritional value. Diabetic patients should consume it in moderation.
Generally speaking, the nutritional value of watermelon-red sweet potatoes is quite rich, primarily reflected in their high content of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, β-carotene, various vitamins, and abundant minerals. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Rich in Carbohydrates
Watermelon-red sweet potatoes contain a large amount of high-quality carbohydrates. These components can be broken down into glucose in the body, providing energy for various physiological activities and supporting normal brain and muscle function. They are suitable as a supplement to daily staple foods.
2. Contain Dietary Fiber
Watermelon-red sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes intestinal motility and increases stool volume, helping to relieve constipation. Additionally, dietary fiber slows down the rate of food digestion and absorption, preventing rapid post-meal blood sugar spikes and contributing to stable blood glucose levels.
3. Rich in β-Carotene
The red color of watermelon-red sweet potatoes comes from their high β-carotene content. This compound can be converted into vitamin A in the body, which helps maintain eye health and protects the mucous membranes of the respiratory and digestive tracts, enhancing their defensive capabilities.
4. Contain Various Vitamins
Watermelon-red sweet potatoes contain multiple vitamins, including vitamin C and the B-complex vitamins. Vitamin C participates in oxidation-reduction reactions in the body and helps strengthen immunity; B-complex vitamins play a role in energy metabolism, assisting the body in converting food into energy.
5. Rich in Minerals
Watermelon-red sweet potatoes are rich in essential minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Potassium helps maintain osmotic balance between cells and supports normal heart rhythm; magnesium is involved in the synthesis of various enzymes and contributes to bone health and stable nerve function.
In addition, watermelon-red sweet potatoes can be prepared in various ways, such as steaming, boiling, or roasting. It is recommended to avoid frying to preserve their nutritional value. Diabetic patients should control their intake and consider pairing them with whole grains for better results. When incorporated appropriately into daily meals, these sweet potatoes can more effectively deliver their nutritional benefits.
