One common 'super vegetable' could help 'prevent cancer and boost gut health' Sweet potato is a key component of the Okinawan diet - one of the world's healthiest diets - and it can also improve gut health, protect against cancer and help promote hair growth The vegetable boasts many health benefits (stock image) (Image: SolStock via Getty Images ) While sticking to a balanced diet is beneficial, it seems that certain foods can seriously ramp up your energy levels. Science backs up the idea that a particular "super vegetable" holds exceptional health benefits. ‌ The often-overlooked sweet potato, especially its purple variant, Beni Imo, stands out as a nutrition-packed choice and a staple of the Okinawan diet – famed as one of the globe's top diets originating in Japan. Article continues below Read more First weight loss pill that suppresses appetite has been trialled with participants losing 16lbs It's not just a common component in meals; the sweet potato significantly contributes to the caloric intake of those following this renowned diet. Known for being an excellent energy source, sweet potatoes are brimming with added health perks like boosting longevity and warding off age-related illnesses. ‌ The virtues of this simple vegetable in bolstering wellbeing are numerous, and perhaps more extensive than you'd expect. Highlighting its myriad of benefits, one impressive feature is the sweet potato's capacity to combat cancer. Findings from a research conducted by Tennessee State University in the US indicated that methanolic extracts from the leaves and stems of sweet potatoes were effective in curbing the proliferation of cancer cells in the breasts and lungs. The findings have been published in the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies. ‌ The study found that leaf extracts from the All-Purple sweet potato cultivar (purple-fleshed), and the stem and leaf extracts from the Carolina Ruby sweet potato cultivar (orange-fleshed), significantly inhibited the growth of lung and breast cancer cells in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, it was noted to have a stronger effect on breast cancer cells. Of course, more research is needed to confirm these results. Sweet potatoes can also boost gut bacteria, thanks to their high dietary fibre content. This acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. ‌ They're also packed with antioxidants that can further improve gut health. Antioxidants, particularly in purple sweet potatoes, can help shield the gut from damage and encourage the growth of healthy gut bacteria. This root vegetable can also promote healthier hair growth, and potentially reduce hair fall due to their nutrient-rich profile. They offer a significant source of vitamin A (from beta-carotene), which is vital for scalp health and hair follicle growth. ‌ Furthermore, sweet potatoes contain other beneficial nutrients like vitamins B6, C and E, along with minerals such as iron, potassium and manganese. All of these contribute to overall hair health. Sweet potatoes, when eaten in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, can be beneficial for those managing diabetes. This vegetable has a lower glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) compared to other carbs, which aids in blood sugar control. ‌ Sweet potatoes are a blessing for eye health, packed with beta-carotene that our bodies convert into vitamin A, essential for vision and overall eye health. They also contain vitamins C and E, which may help prevent or slow down age-related eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Before making any significant changes to your diet, it's always wise to consult with a medical professional. For advice on healthy weight loss, the NHS website is a trusted source of information. Calories provide the energy our bodies need to function correctly. To maintain your weight, the calories you consume should equal the calories your body uses. Article continues below On average, men require 2,500 calories per day, while women need 2,000 calories daily.