Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Sweet Potato vs Soybean: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Soybean is generally healthier

Soybean comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has more protein (11g vs 1.6g), less sugar (0.7g vs 4.2g), less sodium (1mg vs 55mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Sweet Potato

86 kcal

More Protein

Soybean

11g

More Fiber

Sweet Potato

3g

Less Sugar

Soybean

0.7g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Sweet Potato
86
Soybean
95
Proteinper 100g
Sweet Potato
1.6g
Soybean
11g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Sweet Potato
20g
Soybean
12g
Fatper 100g
Sweet Potato
0.1g
Soybean
5g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientSweet PotatoSoybeanDifference
Calories86kcal95kcal-9.0kcal
Protein1.6g11g-9.4g
Carbohydrates20g12g+8.0g
Fat0.1g5g-4.9g
Fiber3g2.5g+0.5g
Sugar4.2g0.7g+3.5g
Sodium55mg1mg+54.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Sweet Potato

Per 100g:86 calories
Per cup (150g):129 calories
Per serving (85g):73 calories

Soybean

Per 100g:95 calories
Per cup (150g):143 calories
Per serving (85g):81 calories

Diet Compatibility

Sweet Potato

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

Soybean

Low-CalorieVeganVegetarianPaleoLow-Sodium

When to Choose Sweet Potato

  • Lower in calories (86 vs 95)
  • More fiber (3g vs 2.5g)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Sweet Potato nutrition →

When to Choose Soybean

  • Higher in protein (11g vs 1.6g)
  • Lower in carbs (12g vs 20g)
  • Less sugar (0.7g vs 4.2g)
  • Lower sodium (1mg vs 55mg)

Common Uses

SaladsStir-friesRoasted sidesSoups
View full Soybean nutrition →

Sweet Potato vs Soybean: Nutritional Analysis

Soybean is more calorie-dense at 95 calories per 100g compared to 86 for Sweet Potato, a difference of 9 calories. On the protein front, Soybean delivers more with 11g per 100g versus 1.6g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Sweet Potato and Soybean tell different nutritional stories. Sweet Potato provides 20g of carbohydrates, 0.1g of fat, and 3g of fiber per 100g, while Soybean contains 12g carbs, 5g fat, and 2.5g fiber. The higher fiber content in Sweet Potato supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Sweet Potato contains 4.2g while Soybean has 0.7g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Sweet Potato is the lower-calorie choice at 86 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Soybean provides more protein (11g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Sweet Potato offers more fiber (3g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Sweet Potato or Soybean?

Soybean has more calories with 95 kcal per 100g, compared to Sweet Potato with 86 kcal. That's a difference of 9 calories per 100g serving.

Is Sweet Potato healthier than Soybean?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Soybean is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Soybean has 95 calories, 11g protein, and 2.5g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Sweet Potato and Soybean?

Soybean has more protein with 11g per 100g, compared to Sweet Potato with 1.6g. Soybean provides 9.4g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Sweet Potato or Soybean?

For weight loss, Sweet Potato is the better choice with only 86 calories per 100g compared to 95 calories in Soybean. Sweet Potato also offers 3g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Sweet Potato or Soybean have fewer carbs?

Soybean has fewer carbs with 12g per 100g, compared to Sweet Potato with 20g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Soybean is the better option with 8.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.