When it comes to weight loss, regular potatoes are slightly better. This is because sweet potatoes often have a higher sugar content. On the other side, regular potatoes often have a higher glycemic index.

Yam and sweet potato are not the same thing. Yams have a savoury taste, that reminds of cassava or regular potato, while sweet potatoes are much sweeter, like pumpkin. The terms "yam" and "sweet potato" are often used interchangeably, causing lots confusion.