Side Effects and Health benefits of water yam.
Water yam is a type of tuber crop whose origin can be traced to continents like Africa, and Asia. Botanically known as Dioscorea Alata, it can also be referred to as Purple yam, Greater yam, Wild yam, or Winged yam. Water yams are great source of carbohydrates, and highly nutritious.
In addition to being a great source of energy, water yam also contains anti-oxidants and nutrients: dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals such as manganese, potassium, manganese and zinc. It can be used to make meals like yam porridge, Ikokore (a traditional local dish in Nigeria), soups and can be eaten with egg sauce.
What are the health benefits of water yam?
👉Can Help Boost Fertility: There is an ancient African saying that consumption of water yam by women could increase their chances of conceiving,particularly twins as yam contains vital nutrients that help enhance fertility.
👉Eases symptoms of menopause in Women:
Menopausal women experience symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances, fatigue etc. This can create a form of discomfort during this time. Consumption of water yam by menopausal women can help relieve these symptoms.
👉Prevents Metabolic Disorders: Water yam is a type of resistant starch food rich in antioxidants, fibers and minerals that can help prevent metabolic disorders such as diabetes, heart diseases can be prevented with consumption of water yam.
👉Reduces Blood Sugar Levels: Water yams contains fiber that help food get slowly absorbed into your system when consumed. Water yam helps lower blood sugar levels; thereby preventing diseases such as diabetes.
👉Reduces High Blood Pressure:It has been found that water yam and its products can help reduce high blood pressure.
👉Helps with Loss of Weight: Consumption of water yam in meals can help keep you full for a long time. The high water content in water yam helps give satiety; thereby, reducing eating.
👉Aids Digestion: The resistant starch and high fiber content contained in water yam can help aid digestion. Consumption increases digestive enzymes that help break down foods.
👉Boosts immune system: Water yam contains B-carotene and Vitamin C that help boost the immune system and protect health by fighting off free radicals in your body. Free radicals are harmful to the body and could cause conditions like cancers and metabolic disorders.
What are the side effects of water yam?
Although a natural produce, water yam can cause side effects. But this only happens when consumed in large amounts.
The Side effects of water yam includes the following:
👉Digestive problems like bloating, diarrhea, constipation and even vomiting.
👉Nausea
👉Headaches
👉Allergic reactions like skin irritations. This happens when it is rubbed as a topical cream.
👉Women with fibroids or breast cancer should avoid consumption or usage of water yam, as it could worsen the condition….it increases blood oestrogen that can make fibroid masses grow larger. It hasn’t been proven if it is safe to consume water yam for lactating mothers, pregnant women or young children, so doctors recommend avoidance of this tuber crop by these set of persons.
Conclusion:
Water yam is a good food choice for all and sundry. However, it is important you consume or use in small and safe portions.
Credit:
Stella-maris Achumba
This article is the intellectual property of www.nimedhealth.com.ng
