Yams are a good source of both potassium and vitamin B6, two
nutrients that your body needs every day. Vitamin B6 helps
your body break down a substance called
homocysteine,
which can cause damage to blood vessel walls. High intakes
of vitamin B6 have been shown to reduce the risk of heart
disease.
Potassium is a mineral that helps to control blood pressure.
In the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) study,
one study group ate servings of fruits, vegetables and
low-fat dairy food in place of snacks and sweets. This
approach offered more potassium, magnesium and calcium.
After eight weeks, this group lowered their blood pressure
by an average of 5.5 points (systolic) over 3.0 points
(diastolic). Yams also contain a storage protein called Dioscorin.
Preliminary research suggests that
Dioscorin can
help your body to achieve increased kidney blood flow
thereby reducing blood pressure.
In addition, Yams' complex carbohydrates and fiber deliver
the goods gradually, slowing the rate at which their sugars
are released and absorbed into the bloodstream. Because
they're rich in fiber, yams fill you up without filling out
your hips and waistline. Yams are also a good source of
manganese, a trace mineral that helps with carbohydrate
metabolism and is a cofactor in a number of enzymes
important in energy production and antioxidant defenses.
Farmacy Gourmet V-10 Creamy Yam Soup is a delicious way to
offer your body all of the wonderful benefits that Yams have
to offer.
As always, we are at your service,
The Wholefood Farmacy Team
