Calorie Count for 180 Grams of Boiled Sweet Potato
A 180-gram serving is slightly larger than a medium sweet potato, which is a good portion size. Based on nutritional information, a 100-gram portion of boiled sweet potato with no added fat contains approximately 76 calories. To find the calories for 180 grams, multiply the 100-gram value by 1.8; the result is approximately 137 calories.
Factors Influencing the Calorie Count
The final calorie count may vary based on a few key factors:
- Added Ingredients: The calculation assumes no additions such as butter, oil, or seasonings that would increase the calorie total.
- Skin On or Off: Cooking with the skin on might change the nutrient density. The skin has a significant amount of fiber, increasing the fiber content.
- Water Content Loss: Baking or roasting a sweet potato removes more water than boiling, increasing the calorie count per 100 grams for baked versions because of concentration.
Nutritional Profile of 180g Boiled Sweet Potato
In addition to the calorie count, a 180g portion of boiled sweet potato offers a rich nutritional profile. Based on a 100g serving with 76 calories, the estimated nutritional content for 180g is as follows:
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 32 grams, providing a good source of energy.
- Dietary Fiber: Roughly 4.5 grams, which aids digestion and promotes fullness.
- Protein: About 2.5 grams.
- Fat: Negligible, around 0.25 grams.
- Vitamin A: A single sweet potato can provide over 100% of the daily Vitamin A needed, which is crucial for eye health and immune function.
- Vitamin C: An excellent source, which supports immune health and skin integrity.
- Potassium: Boiled sweet potatoes are a good source of potassium, which is important for managing blood pressure.
- Antioxidants: Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene (in orange varieties) and anthocyanins (in purple varieties).
Health Benefits of Boiled Sweet Potatoes
Consuming boiled sweet potatoes offers several health advantages:
- Promotes Gut Health: The high fiber content supports healthy gut bacteria and aids in regular digestion. The fiber and resistant starch can be fermented by gut bacteria, creating beneficial short-chain fatty acids.
- Supports Vision: The high concentration of beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A, is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight and protecting against age-related macular degeneration.
- Boosts Immunity: Vitamin A is critical for a healthy immune system, with low blood levels linked to reduced immunity.
- Aids in Weight Management: The high fiber and water content help promote satiety, keeping you feeling fuller for longer. This can help with overall calorie control and support weight loss goals.
- Offers Anti-inflammatory Properties: Antioxidants like anthocyanins found in purple sweet potatoes have been shown to reduce inflammation, which is linked to various chronic diseases.
Boiled vs. Baked Sweet Potatoes: A Comparison
The cooking method can affect the nutritional properties and calorie density of a sweet potato. While baking removes more water and concentrates the calories, boiling can offer benefits like a lower glycemic index, which is better for blood sugar control.
| Feature | Boiled Sweet Potato | Baked Sweet Potato | Best For... |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories (per 100g) | ~76 kcal | ~90-100 kcal | Calorie-controlled meals |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | |
| Water Content | Higher | Lower | Hydration |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | |
| Glycemic Index | Lower | Higher | Stable blood sugar levels |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | |
| Taste Profile | More mellow, subtle sweetness | Richer, more caramelized sweetness | Those watching sugar intake |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | |
| Nutrient Retention | Generally better for retaining some vitamins | Can decrease certain vitamins with high heat | Maximum nutrient benefits |
How to Incorporate Boiled Sweet Potatoes into Your Diet
Boiled sweet potatoes are versatile. Here are some healthy ideas:
- Mashed: Mash with a fork and add salt, pepper, and cinnamon for a side dish.
- Salad Topping: Dice and add to a leafy green salad for fiber and nutrients.
- Hash: Chop and sauté with onions and vegetables for a breakfast hash.
- Soup Base: Blend with vegetable broth and spices for a soup.
- Snack: Eat a small boiled sweet potato with the skin on for a high-fiber snack.
Conclusion
A 180-gram portion of boiled sweet potato has approximately 137 calories, which makes it low-calorie, high-fiber, and nutrient-dense. It is packed with vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to gut, eye, and immune health. Boiling provides a lower glycemic index compared to baking, which is beneficial for blood sugar regulation. Adding this vegetable to your diet is a simple way to boost your nutritional intake and support weight management goals. For maximum benefit, include the skin and avoid high-calorie additions such as fats or sugars.
To learn more about the nutritional science behind sweet potatoes, you can visit the National Institutes of Health [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3551189/].