Are white potatoes less healthy than sweet potatoes?

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    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    White potatoes and sweet potatoes are both nutritious; they have similar calorie density and carbohydrate content but differ in protein and fiber levels. Sweet potatoes have higher amounts of certain vitamins and minerals, whereas white potatoes contain more folate, and both have a high glycemic index, although it is generally higher for white potatoes.

    White potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) and sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) are both nutritious foods and we have not identified studies directly comparing their impacts on health. White potatoes and sweet potatoes have a similar calorie density and carbohydrate content. White potatoes have a bit more protein, while sweet potatoes have a bit more fiber. Sweet potatoes contain more of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A precursors, vitamin C, and calcium, while white potatoes contain more folate.[1][2]

    White potatoes and sweet potatoes both tend to have a high glycemic index, but the glycemic index of white potatoes is typically somewhat higher.[3]

    Are white potatoes less healthy than sweet potatoes? - Examine