benefits of yams

Benefits of Yams

31. Stimulates Collagen Production
It contains a high amount of antioxidants which protect the skin from harsh sun rays and environmental hazards. It stimulates the production of the skin collagen and brings smoothness and elasticity to the skin. Yam also renews damaged skin and improves the appearance of the skin.
32. Face packs
Boil some yam and leave aside to let it cool. Mash it properly and add a dollop of honey. Apply it all over the face and let it stay for 30 minutes. You can also soak your feet in the boiled water to calm and relax your feet. Cut slices of yam and place them on your eyes. Tubers have natural bleaching properties which help to reduce stubborn dark circles and rejuvenate the eyes and treat wrinkles as well.
33. Promotes Hair Growth
Yam is considered as an excellent source of natural health promoting compounds like antocyanins and beta carotene. It also contains Vitamin A which is highly beneficial for cell growth, including growth of hair. A deficiency in beta carotene can lead to dry, dull and lifeless hair which flakes off into dandruff.
34. Hydrates Scalp
Vitamin A in yam helps to produce and protect the oil in the scalp. This will keep the scalp hydrated and will prevent hair fall due to breakage. It will also keep the mane silky and shiny. Thus, yam can help to maintain hair and a fabulous scalp.
35. Prevents Premature Hair Greying
Yam will also prevent premature greying as it contains a good amount of Vitamin B6 which creates melanin and gives the hair its colour. Yams should never be refrigerated until theyandre cooked. Leftovers should be wrapped, refrigerated, and eaten within a few days.
36. Promotes Blood Circulation in the Scalp
Iron in yam helps the red blood cells to carry oxygen and promote blood circulation in the scalp. Low levels of iron in the body can lead to hair loss and baldness in both men and women. Thus, regular consumption of yam will prevent hair loss and will promote hair growth.
37. Side effects of Yam
Yam is not an allergenic food and does not contain too much of oxalates or purines but precautions should be exercised while consuming. andSpeak to your doctor if you suffer from kidney or gall bladder ailment as even the small amount of oxalates can also cause kidney damage. People who have a healthy digestive tract are better able to absorb the nutrients of yam without any side effects. There might be side effects like nausea, vomiting, headache and diarrhoea.
38. Protection Against Cardiovascular Disease
Yams are a good source of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 is needed by the body to break down a substance calledhomocysteine, which can directly damage blood vessel walls. Individuals who suffer a heart attack despite having normal or even low cholesterol levels are often found to have high levels of homocysteine. Since high homocysteine levels are signficantly associated with increased risk of heart attack and stroke, having a good supply of vitamin B6 on hand makes a great deal of sense. High intakes of vitamin B6 have also been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease.
39. Good source of potassium
Yams are a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps to control blood pressure. Since many people not only do not eat enough fruits and vegetables, but also consume high amounts of sodium as salt is frequently added to processed foods, they may be deficient in potassium. Low intake of potassium-rich foods, especially when coupled with a high intake of sodium, can lead to hypertension. In the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) study, one group ate servings of fruits and vegetables in place of snacks and sweets, and also ate low-fat dairy food.
40. A Look at Yam Diosgenin and Menopausal Symptoms
Many consumers have found products in the marketplace that promote wild yam or wild yam extracts as substances that can help provide a natural alternative to hormonal replacement in women who have reached the age of menopause. Many of these products are provided in the form of creams that can be topically applied. Even though the food itself is not usually promoted by natural products companies, these yam-containing products have sparked interest in the relationship between yam and menopause. Yams do contain some unique substances called steroidal ponins, and among these substances are chemicals called diosgenins.