Health Benefits of Talbos ng Kamote

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Sep 23, 2023 • 3 min Read

Sweet potato leaves,  known as talbos ng kamote in Tagalog, are excellent source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It was recognized by the United Nations Asian Vegetable Research and Development Center as a high-nutrition vegetable.

Sweet potato leaves can be eaten fresh or cooked and can be blanched, sauteed, or stir-fried. Popularly prepared as salads, and smoothies. These leaves are used in traditional Pinoy cuisines.

Here are some of the amazing health benefits of this leafy green, from the Finelib.com site:

1. Boosts Immunity

Sweet potato leaves contain vitamins A and C, critical components for maintaining a robust immune system. They increase the production of white blood cells and antibodies that aid in fighting off infections.

2. Promotes Healthy Digestion

These leaves include dietary fiber necessary for the proper functioning of the digestive system. Fiber helps regulate digestion by slowing glucose absorption and promoting regular bowel movements, and aids in preventing constipation and maintaining healthy gut flora.

3. Lowers Cholesterol

High cholesterol levels connect to serious medical problems like heart disease and stroke. Incorporating sweet potato leaves into your diet can help lower cholesterol levels because of pectin, a type of soluble fiber that can reduce cholesterol concentration in your body. It binds to cholesterol in the small intestine and prevents it from entering your bloodstream.

4. Regulates Blood Sugar

Sweet potato leaves are beneficial for those with diabetes or prediabetes as they have a low glycemic index compared to other vegetables, which means you can merge them into the diet without a high risk of adverse effects on blood sugar. These leaves help the body regulate the amount of glucose in the bloodstream by slowing its release into the system.

5. Supports a Healthy Cardiovascular System

Consuming sweet potato leaves can help you get a decent amount of fiber, magnesium, vitamins, and minerals essential for your body. These leaves promote healthy cardiovascular system due to its high antioxidant content.

6. Promotes Eye Health

Sweet potato leaves have beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, crucial in maintaining healthy vision and protecting against night blindness.

7.  Aids in Weight Loss

Sweet potato leaves may help support weight loss due to their low-calorie and high-fiber content. Fiber aids in digestion and helps promote a feeling of fullness, which can reduce overall calorie intake.

8.  Improves Dental Health

The vitamins found in sweet potato leaves help to build strong bones and teeth and maintain good oral hygiene. The minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, can help combat bacteria that cause tooth decay and gingivitis.

9. Benefits Brain Health

These leaves may help promote overall brain health and cognitive functions. Sweet Potato leaves can minimize inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain providing protective benefits against neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

10. Improves Bone Health

Sweet potato leaves are a significant source of calcium and other essential minerals for maintaining strong bones. Research says that it can improve bone mineralization and overall bone health.

Inlcuding this delicious and nutritious veggie in your diet can offer additional health benefits and provide a wider variety of nutrients.

Stay healthy and safe!

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