Yams are delicious tubers that come from the root vegetable family. But they aren’t just treating our taste buds—they’re also jam-packed with nutrients.
Most people think yams and sweet potatoes are the same, but while they come from the same family, they’re two separate veggies altogether. Here’s what you need to know about yams, and why they should be a part of your diet.
The Nutrients
We all need to eat a certain amount of fiber to keep our gut healthy and our digestive system running smoothly. One cup of yam possesses five grams of fiber, which is 20 percent of our daily intake. On top of that, they’re a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and copper.
They Improve Cognitive Abilities
A lot of studies have been done regarding yams and how they relate to our cognitive abilities. In a study conducted in 2017 by Japanese researchers, they discovered an association between taking a yam supplement and more brain activity. This was measured through a specific set of tests.
It turns out that a compound that was found in yams, called diosgenin, actually affects our memory. So if you’re looking to improve your memory, eating yams every now and then might help out.
The bottom line is that yams are quite delicious, and they have most of the vitamins and minerals our body needs to function at an optimal level. So next time you’re in the produce section, be sure to buy some!
