Can sweet potatoes and carrots be eaten together?

Mar 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 19 years old this year. I have always heard online rumors saying that sweet potatoes and carrots shouldn't be eaten together. There are many such rumors, and I really want to know whether sweet potatoes and carrots can actually be eaten together or not.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yu Yongchao

Under normal circumstances, sweet potatoes and carrots can be eaten together. There is no nutritional conflict between sweet potatoes and carrots, and consuming them together can provide various health benefits.

Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, starch, beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, potassium, and other nutrients. These components help enhance immunity, promote intestinal motility, and maintain stable blood sugar levels. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and other nutrients. Beta-carotene can be converted into vitamin A in the body, playing an important role in eye health, skin health, and immune function.

Both contain vitamin C, which helps boost immunity. After beta-carotene converts into vitamin A, it benefits vision health, while dietary fiber promotes intestinal motility and helps prevent constipation. In addition, the starch in sweet potatoes provides a sufficient energy source for the body, while the nutrients in carrots help improve the body's efficiency in utilizing energy.

However, it is important to consume them in moderation. Excessive intake of dietary fiber may increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, leading to discomfort such as bloating and diarrhea. In terms of cooking methods, sweet potatoes and carrots can be steamed, roasted, or stewed together in soup—not only do they taste delicious, but they also retain more nutrients. It is recommended to maintain dietary diversity and balance in daily meals, avoiding excessive intake of any single food or nutrient.