Sweet potato leaves are notably high in essential vitamins, beneficial plant compounds, amino acids, and a variety of vital minerals. Their nutritional profile makes them a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
A Rich Nutritional Powerhouse
Sweet potato leaves, particularly their leaf tips, are recognized as excellent sources of numerous beneficial components. These include a high concentration of vitamins, pigments, amino acids, and a broad spectrum of minerals, contributing significantly to their nutritional value.
Here's a breakdown of what sweet potato leaves are high in, based on scientific findings:
- Vitamin C: An essential antioxidant, sweet potato leaf tips contain a substantial amount of vitamin C, ranging from 99 to 511 mg per 100 grams of dry weight (dw). This makes them a significant contributor to daily vitamin C intake.
- Chlorophyll: As the primary pigment in plants, chlorophyll is abundant in sweet potato leaves, with concentrations from 892 to 1797 mg/100 g dw.
- Carotenoids: These powerful antioxidants, which include precursors to Vitamin A, are also present in high levels, measured between 117 and 237 mg/100 g dw.
- Free Amino Acids: Sweet potato leaves are rich in free amino acids, the building blocks of protein, found in amounts from 479 to 852 mg per gram of dry weight.
- Minerals: They are packed with essential minerals vital for various bodily functions. These include:
- Calcium (Ca)
- Phosphorus (P)
- Magnesium (Mg)
- Iron (Fe)
- Manganese (Mn)
- Zinc (Zn)
- Copper (Cu)
- Selenium (Se)
- High Potassium to Sodium Ratio: Sweet potato leaves exhibit an exceptionally high potassium-to-sodium (K/Na) ratio, reaching up to 384. A high K/Na ratio is generally considered beneficial for maintaining electrolyte balance and supporting cardiovascular health.
Nutritional Breakdown Table
To visualize the concentration of key components, refer to the table below:
| Component | Amount (per 100 g dry weight) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 99–511 mg | Essential antioxidant |
| Chlorophyll | 892–1797 mg | Plant pigment |
| Carotenoids | 117–237 mg | Antioxidants, Vitamin A precursors |
| Free Amino Acids | 479–852 mg (per 1g dry weight) | Protein building blocks |
| K/Na Ratio | Up to 384 | Indicates high potassium relative to sodium |
This rich nutritional profile underscores why sweet potato leaves are considered a valuable and healthful food source, offering a wide array of compounds beneficial for overall well-being.
