By: Abah Roy
Head of DPC Aswin, Cirebon City
Boled or ketele (sweet potato) is not just a traditional food, but also has a deep philosophical meaning in people’s lives.
This food, which has become part of the Nusantara culture, symbolizes simplicity, resilience, and blessings of life. In addition to being rich in cultural value, boled is also popular again because of its health benefits, especially in relieving ulcer symptoms and maintaining stomach health.
Symbol of Simplicity and Resilience
In various regions, boled is a staple food that teaches the philosophy of humility and fortitude.
Growing in the soil without requiring special care, sweet potatoes reflect how something simple can provide great benefits.
Boled is also known as a food that is a savior in difficult times, such as during the food crisis during the colonial era.
This strengthens its position as a symbol of resilience and blessings, teaching that in limitations, there are always resources that can be utilized.
Scientific Evidence: Boled is Effective for Ulcer Sufferers
Beyond its philosophical value, boled has health benefits that cannot be ignored. Sweet potatoes contain mucin, a substance that plays a role in protecting the stomach wall from irritation due to excess stomach acid.
In addition, the high fiber content helps smooth digestion and prevents acid reflux, which is often the main cause of ulcers. Its alkaline (basic) nature also helps neutralize stomach acid, reduce burning sensations, and accelerate the healing of stomach ulcers.
Health experts also highlight the role of vitamins A, C, and beta-carotene in boled which function as natural antioxidants, help reduce inflammation in the stomach and accelerate the healing of wounds due to chronic ulcers.
Boled Trends in the Modern Era
With the increasing awareness of healthy eating patterns, boled has again received widespread attention.
In addition to being served in boiled and steamed form, sweet potatoes are now processed into various modern variants such as sweet potato smoothies, low-sugar brownies, and healthy sweet potato chips.
From folk food to becoming part of a healthy culinary trend, boled proves its existence as a food rich in benefits.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of modern life, this food not only provides energy, but also teaches the philosophy of simplicity, resilience, and blessings.
Cirebon, 26/2/2025
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