Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are the dopamine-rich cousin of the classic spud—naturally sweet, full of colour, and packed with slow-burning energy. They roast like a dream, mash up into something cosy, and can even hold their own in a curry. For people with ADHD, they’re a comforting, nutritious carb that won’t leave you crashing later. Swap them in anywhere you’d use regular potatoes—chips, mash, traybakes, soups—and enjoy a boost in flavour and nutrition with the same effort (or less, if you go frozen).
Why is it good for ADHD?
Sweet potatoes are a great source of complex carbs with a lower GI than white potatoes and plenty of fibre. If you're a big fan of spuds give them a go :
- Complex Carbohydrates – Sweet potatoes provide steady, sustained energy without the blood sugar rollercoaster. They help maintain focus, reduce energy dips, and support more balanced moods throughout the day.
- High in Fibre – Keeps digestion moving and supports a healthy gut, which is closely linked to ADHD symptom regulation.
- Vitamin-Rich – Packed with vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vitamin C, and manganese—all important for brain and immune health.
- Lower Glycaemic Load than White Potatoes – They taste sweet, but break down more slowly in the body—keeping your energy stable.
Different Types & Cuts
- Whole Fresh – Classic orange-skinned sweet potatoes, sold loose or bagged. Choose firm, smooth ones.
- Pre-Prepped – Found chopped, spiralised, or mashed in the chilled aisle—great for quick dinners.
- Frozen Chunks – Ideal for roasting or blending into soups and curries. Store a bag in the freezer for no-prep days.
Buying Tips
- Look for firm, smooth skin on fresh potatoes—avoid soft spots or wrinkles.
- Frozen or prepped versions are brilliant time-savers—just check the ingredients for unnecessary additives (especially sugars or stabilisers).
- Look put for offers on small bags of sweet potatoes, you can get some bargains.
Storage Tips
- Whole: Store in a cool, dark place (not the fridge) to prevent moisture loss.
- Prepped or chopped: Use within a few days, or freeze if needed.
- Cooked: Leftovers keep in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheat well in the air fryer or microwave.
Prep Tips
- Air Fry: Chop into wedges or cubes, toss in oil and seasoning, cook at 200°C for 15–20 mins.
- Mash: Steam or microwave chunks until soft, then mash with a little butter, or olive oil.
- Bake: Roast whole at 200°C for 40–50 mins until caramelised and soft inside. Slice open and load up with toppings.
- Frozen Tip: No need to defrost—just roast or cook from frozen straight away.
Related Recipes
Use the search below below to find recipes with the same ingredients.
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