Not all potatoes are created equal -- especially when it comes to controlling blood sugar. So what's the superior choice for people hoping to sweep aside diabetes?

It's the nutritious sweet potato, according to John La Puma, MD, author of ChefMD's Big Book of Culinary Medicine. This spud may actually help stabilize blood sugar and lower insulin resistance.

Sweet and Steady
Unsteady blood sugar is a big-time risk factor for diabetes. And, because of their high glycemic index, white potatoes -- be they russet or Idaho -- can send blood sugar levels soaring and then crashing. Sweet potatoes, on the other hand? They have a lower glycemic index than white potatoes. And the carotenoids in sweet potatoes may help your body use insulin better -- although further study is needed to confirm this. (Find out if white potatoes can have a place in a healthful diet.)

Balancing Act
Your choice of potato is only one small factor in the big picture of blood sugar control. Try these additional strategies for keeping it in check:

• Get moving -- a little every day. Here's how exercise benefits blood glucose.
• Eat your carbs with a bit of vinegar. Here's how sour stuff steadies blood sugar.
• Load up on fiber. Both your waistline and your blood sugar will thank you.

Recipe Corner
Creamy never tasted so sweet. Try this recipe for Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Coconut Milk.

ChefMD's Big Book of Culinary Medicine. La Puma, J., New York: Crown Publishers, 2008.