Digestive Aid

The moderate quantity of potassium in yams may prevent digestive conditions, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Potassiumands role as an electrolyte is essential in stimulating the smooth muscle contractions needed for digestion. The addition of yams to the diet of those with inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, may offer a dietary supplement of potassium more easily absorbed in the intestines. Additional anti-inflammatory support found in yams may decrease pain and other symptoms associated with IBD.