Sweet potatoes are a popular breakfast food due to their nutritional benefits such as protein, vitamins, and fiber. Some people even see them as a suitable alternative for weight loss and replacing main meals. However, while it is acceptable to consume sweet potatoes in the morning, it’s essential to consider how they are consumed.
For office workers who do not engage in intense physical activity, a medium-sized sweet potato weighing around 200 grams may be sufficient. Still, for individuals with demanding jobs or those who exercise rigorously, one sweet potato may not provide enough energy. A 200-gram sweet potato offers approximately 240 calories, which is not enough for a breakfast that should contain at least 300 calories to meet energy requirements.
Continuous consumption of sweet potatoes for an extended period can increase the risk of malnutrition and inadequate calorie intake. Although containing fiber and protein, sweet potatoes may lack the balance of nutrients found in other foods like vermicelli or pho that also contain starch, protein, and fat in addition to vegetables. Therefore, individuals should incorporate a variety of foods into their diet to ensure they receive a diverse range of nutrients.
In conclusion, while it is fine to eat sweet potatoes for breakfast, individuals should not rely on them solely as their source of nutrition over an extended period. It’s recommended to vary one’s diet by including different foods to ensure balanced nutrient intake.