If you’re looking for a tasty snack that won’t derail your healthy eating habits, sweet potato chips may be the perfect solution. 23 pieces (30 g) of sweet potato chips typically contain around 130 calories, making them a relatively low-calorie snack option.
Not only that, but sweet potato chips also offer a host of nutritional benefits. Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, making them a healthier option than regular potato chips.
In this article, we'll explore some of the pros and cons of eating sweet potato chips, as well as tips for portion control and healthier alternatives.
As mentioned earlier, sweet potato chips are a healthier option than regular potato chips. They contain fewer calories and are more nutrient-dense. In addition to vitamins and minerals, sweet potatoes also contain dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and keep you feeling full for longer. It’s important to note that not all sweet potato chips are created equal. Some brands may add extra salt, sugar, or artificial ingredients, which can diminish the nutritional value of the snack. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose brands that use natural ingredients and minimal processing.
Benefits of Eating Sweet Potato Chips
In addition to being a healthier snack option, sweet potato chips also offer a range of health benefits. The vitamins and minerals present in sweet potatoes can help boost your immune system, improve eye health, and promote healthy skin. Sweet potatoes also contain antioxidants, which can help protect against chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Finally, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index (GI), meaning they won’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels. This makes them a great snack option for individuals with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Disadvantages of Eating Sweet Potato Chips
While sweet potato chips offer numerous health benefits, there are also a few disadvantages to consider. One potential downside of sweet potato chips is their high calorie content. While they are lower in calories than regular potato chips, they can still be easy to overeat if you’re not careful. Additionally, some brands may add extra salt, sugar, or artificial ingredients to sweet potato chips, which can negate some of the health benefits associated with the snack. Lastly, some people may experience digestive issues or allergy symptoms after consuming sweet potatoes, so it’s important to be aware of any potential side effects.
Portion Control
One of the most important things to keep in mind when eating sweet potato chips (or any snack, for that matter) is portion control. While sweet potato chips can be a healthy snack option, they can also be high in calories if you consume too many. A serving size of sweet potato chips is typically around 23 pieces (30 g). Be sure to measure out your servings and avoid mindlessly munching on the snack straight from the bag. To help with portion control, consider portioning out your sweet potato chips into individual baggies or containers that are pre-measured. This can help you avoid overeating and make the snack easier to grab on-the-go.
Comparison with Regular Potato Chips
It’s no secret that sweet potato chips are healthier than regular potato chips. Regular potato chips are often fried in unhealthy oils and loaded with salt and artificial flavors. In addition to being lower in calories, sweet potato chips are typically made with healthier oils such as coconut oil or avocado oil. They are also a good source of dietary fiber and offer more vitamins and minerals than regular potato chips. If you’re trying to make healthy choices, sweet potato chips are a great alternative to regular potato chips. Just be sure to read the label carefully and choose brands that use natural ingredients and minimal processing.
Healthy Alternatives to Sweet Potato Chips
If you’re looking for even healthier snack options, there are plenty of alternatives to sweet potato chips. Some healthy snack options include fresh fruit, veggies with hummus or Greek yogurt dip, air-popped popcorn, or homemade trail mix. There are also plenty of healthy chip alternatives on the market, such as kale chips or carrot chips. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose brands that use natural ingredients and minimal processing.
Ways to Cook Sweet Potato Chips
If you’re interested in making your own sweet potato chips at home, there are plenty of ways to do so. One popular method is to slice sweet potatoes into thin rounds and bake them in the oven at 375°F for 20-30 minutes or until crispy. You can also use a mandolin or potato chipper to make uniform slices, or try cutting sweet potatoes into strips to make sweet potato fries.
How Sweet Potato Chips Affect Weight Loss
While sweet potato chips can be a healthy snack option, they may not necessarily lead to weight loss on their own. In order to lose weight, you need to create a calorie deficit by burning more calories than you consume. While sweet potato chips are low in calories, they can still contribute to overall calorie intake if consumed in excess. That being said, if you incorporate sweet potato chips into a healthy diet and exercise plan, they can be a useful tool for weight loss. Just be sure to practice portion control and pair the snack with other healthy foods such as lean protein and veggies.
Tips For Buying Healthy Sweet Potato Chips
When shopping for sweet potato chips, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure you’re choosing a healthy option. First, be sure to read the label carefully and look for brands that use natural ingredients and minimal processing. Avoid chips that contain extra sugar, salt, or artificial flavors. You can also look for sweet potato chips that are baked instead of fried, as this will help reduce the overall fat content of the snack.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet potato chips can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or paired with other healthy foods to make a more complete meal. Consider dipping sweet potato chips in hummus, guacamole, or salsa for a tasty and healthy snack. You can also pair sweet potato chips with lean protein such as grilled chicken or fish, and veggies for a well-rounded meal. Get creative with your sweet potato chip recipes and experiment with different flavor combinations to keep things interesting.
“Sweet potato chips are a great alternative to traditional potato chips, offering more nutrition and fewer calories. Just be sure to practice portion control and choose natural brands.”
5 FAQs about Sweet Potato Chips
1. Are sweet potato chips healthy?
Compared to regular potato chips, sweet potato chips are considered healthier as they are lower in calories and contain more nutrients, such as fiber, potassium, and vitamin A. However, they are still a snack food and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
2. Can sweet potato chips help with weight loss?
While sweet potato chips are lower in calories than regular potato chips, they are still high in calories and should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Consuming sweet potato chips alone will not cause weight loss, but combining them with other healthy foods and regular exercise can help support weight loss efforts.
3. Are sweet potato chips gluten-free?
Most sweet potato chips are gluten-free, but it is important to check the label before purchasing to ensure that they have not been processed in a facility that also processes gluten-containing ingredients.
4. Can sweet potato chips be part of a low-carb diet?
While sweet potato chips are lower in carbs than regular potato chips, they are still a carbohydrate-dense food and should be consumed in moderation as part of a low-carb diet. Alternatives like sliced cucumber or zucchini can be used in place of chips for a lower-carb snack option.
5. How can I make my own sweet potato chips?
To make your own sweet potato chips, thinly slice a sweet potato and drizzle with olive oil. Season with salt and any other desired spices or herbs. Bake in the oven at 375 degrees F for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy and lightly browned.