NATIONAL COOK A SWEET POTATO DAY

Happy National Cook a Sweet Potato Day!

celebrated across the United States each year on February 22nd.  

The sweet potato is the spud-tastic potato that is eaten and loved by millions of people across the nation. Central America or South America is thought to be the center of origin and domestication of sweet potatoes.  It is known that in Central America, sweet potatoes were domesticated at least 5000 years ago.  Peruvian sweet potato remnants dating as far back as 8,000 BC have been found in South America.

The sweet potato is an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports good vision, the immune system and bone growth.  Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamin B-6, magnesium and vitamin C.  It’s also great for the complexion. High in fiber and low in fat and calories, this root vegetable is a healthful alternative to snack foods when prepared without added butter, sugar or salt.

Unlike other potatoes, sweet potatoes like long, hot growing seasons. This might explain why it is the state vegetable of North Carolina.  

Celebrate today with Dr. Velonda (if you are in Atlanta, Ga):

Thursday, February 22nd 6pm - 8pm

Book signing & recipe sampling

Phoenix & Dragon Bookstore

5531 Roswell Rd NE

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https://www.facebook.com/events/253758721830894/

Follow Dr. Velonda on social media: Twitter: @drvelonda & @sweetpotatodelights  Instagram: sweetpotatodelights

New Year, New You - Month #2

Get Ready, February is coming........ 

February is full of health celebrations. Here are my top 3:

February American Heart Month

Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease. The good news is that heart disease can often be prevented by making healthy choices. (https://millionhearts.hhs.gov) 

February is National Children's Dental Health Month: The 2018 month long celebration is brought to you by the American Dental Association and Crest + Oral B; helping parents provide children with a healthy smile!  

 

February is National Sweet Potato Month –  celebrating the most nutritious vegetable in the world! The top 2 health benefits of sweet potatoes are antioxidants and blood sugar regulation. Stay tunes for a month full of sweet potato nutrition nuggets. In the meantime, use the recipe below to add sweet potato pancakes to your menu.

Sweet potato pancakes

2 cups rolled oat (or oat flour)

1 cup almond milk

1 cup sweet potato purée

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

3/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon celtic salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

• Process/grind oats in a grinder, food process or high speed blender
• Add oats and all other ingredients to the food processor or high-speed blender. Process/blend until smooth. Set aside while you preheat a skillet over medium heat.
• Pour batter into skillet, ½ - 1/3 cup at a time, fill with as many pancakes as fit comfortably fit.
• Cook on each side on medium-low heat for about 3 minutes. Flip when the center starts to bubble.
• Top the pancakes with maple syrup and berries to taste.

Mark your calendar for February 22^nd celebration of National Cook a Sweet Potato Day.

Sweet Potato Delights  (www.sweetpotatodelights.com) will be celebrating at the Phoenix & Dragon Bookstore located at 5531 Roswell Road NE  in Sandy Springs, Ga (www.phoenixanddragon.com) 

Yours in health, Dr. Velonda - TWITTER @drvelonda INSTAGRAM sweetpotatodelights