Yams are the HERO of the DAY – however, they too are often mistaken, just like sweet potatoes. So once again, let us get ourselves CLEAR on what truly defines a YAM & how do they contribute towards HEALTH.
Some people use the terms “sweet potato” and “yam” interchangeably. However, the two are not at all related. Yams are much larger than Sweet potatoes (up to 100 lb) and are a staple food in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Oceania. Though yams are grown around the world, yet West Africa is the largest producer of this staple food – almost 95%.
Yams are closer in texture and taste to the potato than to the sweet potato. Yams have a drier texture and a starchier than sweet potato. In fact, true yam powder can be used similarly to instant mashed potato powder.
A distinct feature associated with Yams is their a distinct brown, bark-like exterior. The inner flesh can be white, yellow, purple, or pink depending on the maturity of the yam.
There are more than 800 varieties of yams in the world. One tends to find Chinese and Japanese yams in the Asian markets, such varieties have lighter-brown skin, and are cylindrical.
In India, there is yet another variety of Yams – called Elephant Foot Yam. Referred by locals as Suran, Jimikand, this variety of Yam is a Powerhouse of Nutrition.
Here’s a secret associated with Yams – Yams are a part of traditional Indian cooking since ages and a very important component – a must have for Lakshmi Puja meal on Diwali.
5 Reasons to add Yams to our Meals
1 – Yams are high in potassium & manganese – Both nutrients are important for supporting bone health, growth, metabolism, and heart function.
2 – Yams are an excellent source of fiber hence viewed as a cancer deterrent especially in case of colon cancer.
3 – Yams provide us with decent amounts Copper and Vitamin C -Copper is vital for red blood cell production and iron absorption, while vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost our immune system – So you see, yams are excellent for people suffering from Iron disorders & low immunity.
4 – Yams have been known to reduce inflammations in our Body ❤
5 – With a low glycemic index, yam is considered a safe food for those suffering from diabetes. Yam increases the blood sugar level slowly, as compared to other root veggies and is thus good for diabetics.
Due to the nutrient density of yams, eating Yams is associated with a number of health benefits, including weight loss, antimicrobial effects, and improved digestive health and cholesterol levels. Also true it is that Yams can be baked, boiled, steamed, roasted, fried, and pan-cooked…the choices are plenty, to enjoy this versatile Vegetable.
Unique Connect associated with YAMS
Yams are also popular in Medicinal Field – Specially popular in Bangladesh, Bihar and West Bengal, Jimikand or Suran is recommended by three main medicinal systems, namely the Unani, the Siddha and the Ayurveda.
Besides the Indian Connect, in China, Korea, and Japan, yam is used as a traditional medicine that helps control cough, ulcer, boils and other skin diseases. According to doctors, it contains allantoin, a cell that stimulates the healing process.
Now we have Many Reasons to add the Yummy Yams to our Meals – Indeed TRUE it is that Yams are Yummy, not only in terms of Taste but also HEALTH !!!
Journeys & Reflections 