In autumn and winter, sweet potatoes and chestnuts become frequent guests on the table, and they win the love of many people with their rich nutrition and sweet taste. Recently, however, there have been voices calling these popular ingredients "cancer catalysts." Such a statement has sparked a lot of discussion and concern in social circles. Are sweet potatoes and chestnuts, the ideal sources of nutrition for autumn and winter, really a hidden threat to health?
Sweet potatoes and chestnuts: a treasure trove of winter nutrition
Sweet potatoes and chestnuts, as common ingredients in autumn and winter, are not only sweet, but also rich in nutritional value. Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins C and B complexes, and minerals such as potassium and iron. Dietary fiber, in particular, is essential for maintaining gut health, helping to prevent constipation and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. The antioxidant in sweet potatoes β-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which has positive effects on both eye health and the immune system.
Chestnuts are known for their unique starch and trace elements. Compared to other nuts, chestnuts are lower in fat but provide a rich source of carbohydrates, which makes them ideal for providing energy. They also contain vitamin C and B vitamins, which are important for the body's energy metabolism and nervous system function. The minerals in chestnuts, such as potassium and magnesium, are especially beneficial for heart health.
A specific example is that in one study, sweet potatoes were found to help with blood sugar management, which is especially beneficial for people with diabetes. Its high-fiber content helps to slow down the digestive process, which slows down the rise in blood sugar. The complex carbohydrates in chestnuts have a similar effect, helping to provide sustained energy and reduce blood sugar fluctuations.
In winter, these ingredients not only add deliciousness to the table, but also provide the body with the necessary nutrients and energy. It is these nutrients that make sweet potatoes and chestnuts an ideal source of nutrients for autumn and winter.
Demystifying Nutrition Myths: Are Sweet Potatoes and Chestnuts Really "Cancer Catalysts"?
Sweet potatoes and chestnuts have long been considered healthy ingredients, but in recent years there have been some confusing voices online that these foods could be "cancer catalysts". This claim is often based on a misunderstanding of the composition of food and a misinterpretation of scientific research. Sweet potatoes, for example, are rich in β-carotene and fiber, which have been shown in most studies to help reduce the risk of certain cancers, rather than increase them.
One source of this misconception is the excessive focus on food sugar. Sweet potatoes and chestnuts are incorrectly labelled as foods that may increase the risk of cancer due to their higher sugar content. However, this view ignores a key fact: the natural sugars in foods have completely different health effects than processed sugars. In fact, natural sugars are often accompanied by fiber and other beneficial nutrients, which can help slow down sugar absorption and provide other health benefits.
Another misconception stems from an inappropriate understanding of cooking methods. For example, when sweet potatoes are cooked at high temperatures, such as roasted or fried, harmful substances such as acrylamide may be produced. Some studies have shown that these substances may increase cancer risk at extremely high intakes. But it's important to recognize that in the daily diet, the intake of such substances is often well below dangerous levels.
Social media and non-scientific sources often amplify and distort food research findings. For example, a preliminary study on the relationship between food and cancer may be misinterpreted as conclusive evidence. This distortion of information not only misleads the public, but also affects people's correct understanding of healthy food.
Wisdom to eat autumn treasures: sweet potatoes and chestnuts
Sweet potatoes and chestnuts, nutritional treasures in autumn and winter, if eaten correctly, can not only replenish nutrients, but also bring multiple benefits to the body. However, many people have misconceptions about how to consume these ingredients healthily.
Sweet potatoes are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C and minerals, and are a natural reservoir of nutrients. However, excessive consumption or improper cooking can reduce its health value. To maximize the nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes, it is recommended to cook them instead of frying them. Steaming retains more nutrients while reducing the intake of extra calories. Sweet potatoes should not be eaten on an empty stomach because the tannins and gums they contain can irritate the gastric mucosa and cause discomfort.
Chestnuts, also known as the "king of dried fruits," are rich in protein and healthy fats, as well as vitamin E and minerals. Its low-fat and high-fiber properties make it an ideal healthy snack. However, chestnuts are higher in calories, so be careful to control the amount when eating them. The recommended amount of chestnuts to be eaten at one time is 30-40 grams. The best way to eat chestnuts is to roast or boil them, which preserves their natural flavor and avoids adding unnecessary fat.
Scientific studies have shown that eating sweet potatoes and chestnuts in moderation can provide the body with essential nutrients while helping to maintain stable blood sugar levels. The high-fiber content in sweet potatoes helps improve digestion, while the healthy fats in chestnuts are great for heart health.