In an interview, the Spanish national football team's chef shared that the team's players are consuming up to 40 kilos of sweet potatoes a day during this Euro Cup on the recommendation of their nutritionists. It turns out that these tubers offer numerous benefits to athletes, from their high content of complex carbohydrates, which allow a sustained release of energy, to their richness in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which are essential for physical performance and recovery.
The complex carbohydrates in sweet potatoes play an essential role in maintaining optimal energy levels during prolonged workouts and in the recovery of muscle glycogen stores. The fiber they offer promotes healthy digestion, ensuring an effective absorption of nutrients. In addition, sweet potatoes have vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene, vitamins C and B, potassium, and magnesium, which strengthen the immune system, eye health, tissue repair, and muscle function.
Beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant, helping reduce oxidative damage and inflammation, and facilitating faster muscle recovery. Thanks to their low glycemic index, sweet potatoes guarantee a controlled release of glucose, which promotes endurance and performance. Likewise, their anti-inflammatory properties contribute to better muscle and joint recovery after exercise.
From a cardiovascular standpoint, the potassium and fiber in sweet potatoes support heart health by controlling blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels. Moreover, since they can be prepared in many ways, they can be easily incorporated into the athletes' diet.
In short, sweet potatoes contribute to muscle recovery and digestive health, thanks to their prebiotic content. They are also a vital component for maintaining the athletes' energy, health, and general well-being. All of which makes them an indispensable food in sports nutrition.
Source: sportlife.es