Dr. Dawn Mussallem calls purple sweet potatoes her favorite food and emphasizes their unique ability to modulate gene activity. “They can turn off genes that promote cancer and turn on tumor-suppressor genes — it’s like giving your body a natural switch to fight disease,” she explains.
Purple sweet potatoes are nutritional powerhouses, and as studies suggest, they are loaded with anthocyanins, the same potent phytonutrients found in berries, but in even higher concentrations. These compounds act as strong antioxidants, helping protect cells from DNA damage and oxidative stress, which are major triggers for cancer development.
The oncologist also points out that these tubers are a staple in the “blue zones”, regions of the world where people live the longest with low levels of chronic disease. Dr. Mussallem recommends a simple approach: steam, bake, or lightly roast them to enjoy their natural sweetness while maximizing their anti-cancer benefits.
