Final answer:
Sweet potatoes are good for weight loss due to their high fiber content and low glycemic index, and they store starch from sugar produced during photosynthesis. Other starchy roots consumed by people include cassava, yams, and taro, which are staples in various cultures and provide energy and nutrients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Sweet potatoes are considered beneficial for weight loss due to their high fiber content, which can increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. They have a low glycemic index, meaning they provide a slow and steady source of energy without causing sharp spikes in blood sugar. Sweet potatoes also have secondary growth in their roots, which creates more space to store food in the form of starch, similar to sugar from photosynthesis.
Other starchy roots commonly consumed by people include cassava (also known as yuca or manioc), yams, and taro. These roots, like sweet potatoes, serve as staple foods in various cultures and provide important nutrients as well as energy. They are especially significant in parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America, where they fulfill a major part of the dietary carbohydrate requirements.