In this post, Charmaigne talks about Sweet Potatoes – Shakarkand . Native to Central and South America, sweet potatoes are one of the oldest vegetables known to man. They were brought to India by the Portuguese in the 16th century. These tuberous roots are very nutritious. They are the unsung heroes of a balanced diet for the following reasons: They are rich in antioxidants like beta carotene and vitamins A, D, E & C which are all necessary to delay ageing , protect against asthma, maintain the health of our skin, bones, teeth, heart, nerves and thyroid gland. They are a source of vitamin B6 which helps lower blood homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is a chemical associated with degenerative heart disease. They are also a good source of minerals like manganese, calcium, phosphorus, zinc and iron which are all needed for maintaining immune function, forming red and white blood cells, metabolizing proteins etc. Due to their iron and vitamin A content, sweet potatoes help inc