What specific class of powerful antioxidants do purple sweet potatoes contain, which are also found in blueberries?
Answer
Anthocyanins
While the orange varieties of sweet potatoes are famous for their high carotenoid content, specifically beta-carotene, the text points out that other colors offer distinct phytochemical advantages. Purple sweet potatoes are noted for containing anthocyanins. Anthocyanins are recognized as potent antioxidants that contribute to the unique coloration observed in these vegetables. The text draws a direct parallel, noting that this same class of powerful compounds is also found in other foods like blueberries and red cabbage. Selecting these different colored varieties allows consumers to achieve a broader spectrum of cellular defense by cycling through various beneficial phytochemical classes.
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