What You Should Know About High-Carb Fruits And Vegetables

Although some health authors have demonized carbohydrates, there are many healthy sources of carbs out there. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 45% – 65% of our diet should consist of carbs. Plus, natural sugars are not the same as added sugar, which the American Heart Association measures to prevent cardiovascular disease.

If you’re worried about high-carb fruits and vegetables, you’ll want to keep reading. Some have enough fiber to counteract the sugar, while others may spike your blood glucose levels. Learn the ups and downs of these high-carb vegetables and fruits.

Sweet Potatoes Are Similar To White Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are a starchy root vegetable that many people count as a carb, not a vegetable. According to the USDA, a medium sweet potato contains 23 grams of carbohydrates and seven grams of sugar. In terms of glycemic index, they’re similar to white potatoes.

Farmers examine their freshly harvested sweet potatoes.
Bernd Wüstneck/picture alliance via Getty Images
Bernd Wüstneck/picture alliance via Getty Images

Although sweet potatoes have high carbs, most people eat them in smaller portions than white potatoes. This might be why they aren’t linked to weight gain, according to Harvard Health. Plus, sweet potatoes also provide up to six times your daily recommended vitamin A. Stick to one sweet potato a day to avoid a vitamin A overdose.