Sweet Potatoes: A Simple Superfood for Longevity, According to Blue Zones Expert Dan Buettner

Explorer Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones, highlights sweet potatoes as a readily available and affordable superfood that may contribute to longevity. Buettner emphasizes that sweet potatoes are packed with complex carbohydrates, protein, micronutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, all crucial for overall health.

* **Nutrient-Rich:** Sweet potatoes boast complex carbohydrates, protein (around 2.1g), and essential micronutrients.
* **Affordable and Accessible:** They are cheap and available worldwide.
* **Gut Health and Anti-Inflammatory:** Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, promoting gut health, and antioxidants, which combat inflammation.
* **Okinawan Diet Staple:** Buettner notes that Okinawans, known for their longevity, derive over 60% of their daily calories from sweet potatoes.

Buettner advises focusing on whole foods like sweet potatoes rather than fleeting diet trends for long-term health and well-being.