Making a switch to healthier foods can be the best way to prevent some lifestyle diseases. Hence, foods like yams have become a staple in many households replacing refined carbs like white rice and pasta. However, yams have always been a popular dish, especially in West Africa thanks to their versatility and nutritional value. There are many yam recipes that you can eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner depending on the preparation. Some of these dishes include pounded yam, yam porridge, and yam salad. You should try out these Nigerian dishes
These tubers also have lots of nutrients such as fibre, Vitamin C, copper, manganese, and potassium that offer numerous health benefits. From improving eyesight to boosting brain function, here are some health benefits of yams.
Reduces Inflammation
Inflammation is linked to chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart diseases. It happens when the body continues sending inflammatory cells even when there is no danger leading to chronic pain. You can lower inflammation levels in your body by eating foods that fight inflammation. Yams are a rich source of Vitamin C, a known powerful antioxidant that fights against inflammation. Foods That Fight Inflammation
Prevents Anaemia
When a person’s body does not have enough blood cells, they become anaemic. This condition can lead to fatigue, headaches and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. Yams are rich in minerals such as potassium and copper which help in iron absorption, maintenance of the nerves, and blood cell production. They also have thiocyanate, also known as yam vitamin, which has been proven to greatly reduce the sickling of red blood cells, hence may prevent sickle cell anaemia. Anaemia – Types, Symptoms, Causes, Management, And Treatment
Improves Brain Function
Mental illnesses affect your personality, social interactions, and learning capabilities. It’s, therefore, necessary to take care of your mental health to avoid a decline in your mental capacity. According to research, yams help improve cognitive function. They contain a compound called diosgenin, which promotes neuron growth and enhance brain function. 8 Foods That Promote Mental Health
Boosts Fertility
Many women struggle with fertility which can kill their dreams of becoming parents. However, some fertility issues can be resolved with a simple diet change. Yams are said to be a fertility superfood and have been linked to the high birth rate in West Africa. This can be backed by science since yams contain “natural” progesterone, which is a key hormone in helping a uterus prepare for a fertilized egg. The Symptoms Of Early Menopause, Causes, And Treatment
Lowers Cholesterol
The body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells but in high qualities, cholesterol can clog the arteries leading to cardiovascular diseases. Unfortunately, high cholesterol is a common problem today due to a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet. Eating yams can help lower cholesterol levels. They are rich in a special soluble fibre that destroys bad cholesterol by binding them and removing them from the body. Foods To Improve And Lower Cholesterol Levels
Slows Skin Aging
Wrinkles and fine lines can make someone feel insecure about their appearance. However, it’s a natural process of aging that you can only slow down. To slow down the process and have youthful skin, add more yams to your diet. Yams contain a powerful steroid known as diosgenin that fights against skin aging in women at the time of menopause. Additionally, its rich Vitamin C content helps boost collagen production and minimize wrinkles. 7 Anti-aging Skincare Tips For Youthful Skin
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