Top 7 Benefits Of Yams

What Are The Health Benefits Of Eating Yams?

Yams are among the most flavorsome vegetables you can eat. As root vegetables that have been around for ages, yams also have a long history of use in alternative medicine. The roots and rhizomes of yam particularly contribute to its benefits.

1. Promote Fertility

Studies show that yams can promote fertility.
Lately, natural hormones are becoming popular options for hormone replacement therapy. Creams containing wild yam extracts are emerging as the ideal choice for some women. ‘Natural’ progesterone is commonly derived from an inedible, wild, Mexico-produced yam called Diascorea Uillosa.

2. Relieve Menopause Symptoms

Diosgenin, a substance in wild yam, is used to treat sex hormone issues. It is also used to produce contraceptives and relieve the symptoms of menopause and premenstrual syndrome. In a study, this substance could relieve menopausal symptoms without any side effects.
Traditional medication acknowledges that yams contain important compounds that are significantly advantageous for issues like menopause and premenstrual syndrome. Additionally, studies show that ingestion of yam can boost the status of sex hormones, lipids, and other antioxidants.

3. Aid Diabetes Treatment

Diabetes is caused by a decrease or deficiency of insulin secretion (or from increased cellular resistance to insulin). Studies have demonstrated that yam can contribute to the improvement of glucose metabolism.
Additionally, the sugar in yams adds a natural sweetness to your meals and reduces your cravings for added sugar.
Yam and its active constituent allantoin can modulate oxidative stress. They also boost liver function, thereby maintaining insulin and glucose levels .

4. May Aid Weight Loss

Glucomannan, a fiber extracted from the roots of yam, may help with weight loss. The fiber turns into a gel that lingers in the stomach, making you feel full.
This can keep your cravings at bay and eventually lead to weight loss.

5. Can Be Used As Baby Food

Yams are much sweeter and nutritious than white potatoes. They can also easily be mashed, making them an ideal food for babies.

6. Fight Inflammation And Promote Gut Flora

The outer bark of the wild yam root is rich in a compound called saponin, which may help fight inflammation. They may also promote your gut flora.
Saponins combat inflammation and help relax (and even treat) your abdominal and pelvic muscles.

7. Help Prevent Cancer

A comprehensive review noted the ability of diosgenin in yams to prevent carcinogenesis by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. The study concludes by stating that yam can be useful as an anticarcinogenic agent.