Yam is the Dioscorea species—a root vegetable with many varieties including yellow and purple yams. Yams are commonly mistaken for sweet potatoes, which are a different species. Yams are native to Africa but are available all over the world and are a popular vegetable food.1
Yam Health Uses and Health Benefits
Yams have many health benefits, including being low on the glycemic index—meaning it helps regulate blood sugar levels, which is important for diabetics. Yams are also high in vitamin A, an important nutrient for healthy skin and bones and for maintaining healthy vision. Yams also have natural anti-inflammatory properties, making them a functional food for arthritis pain relief.1,2
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