Is Eating White Sweet Potato in Late Pregnancy Beneficial for the Fetus?

White sweet potatoes—often confused with regular white-fleshed potatoes but botanically distinct as a variety of Ipomoea batatas—can be a nutritious addition to the diet during the third trimester of pregnancy. Unlike orange-fleshed sweet potatoes, white sweet potatoes contain lower levels of beta-carotene but remain rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins—including folate, which supports neural tube development and red blood cell formation.

From a maternal nutrition standpoint, their low glycemic index helps promote stable postprandial glucose levels—a key consideration given the increased insulin resistance common in late pregnancy. Their high fiber content also aids gastrointestinal motility, potentially alleviating constipation, a frequent complaint during the third trimester due to progesterone-mediated smooth muscle relaxation and uterine pressure on the colon.

There is no evidence that white sweet potatoes pose any risk to fetal development when consumed in typical dietary amounts. However, they should not replace orange-fleshed sweet potatoes or other vitamin A–rich foods entirely, as adequate preformed vitamin A (retinol) and provitamin A carotenoids remain essential for fetal organogenesis, particularly ocular and pulmonary maturation. Pregnant individuals with gestational diabetes or chronic kidney disease should consult a registered dietitian or obstetric provider before significantly increasing intake, given the food’s moderate potassium content and carbohydrate load.

In summary, white sweet potatoes are a safe, nutrient-dense food choice during late pregnancy when incorporated as part of a balanced, varied diet. As with all whole foods, moderation and individualized nutritional guidance are paramount.