The Power of Purple Yams
By Brandi Swieter
Most people are aware of yams, which are typically used as a holiday side dish. These vegetables are often orange in color and most commonly known as sweet potatoes. Although this is the most heard of version, search the produce shelves and purple yams can be found as well. There is a lot of power to purple yams, even more so than the regular version of the root vegetable.
Antioxidant Properties
Additional flavonoids and anthocyanins are found in purple yams that aren’t in the orange ones. These properties provide antioxidants that work to fight off cancerous cells within the body. The purple hue of the yams is what provides more of these compounds, making it more beneficial to eat a darker fruit or vegetable than their lighter counterparts. They have anti-bacteria agents as well, which are found in excess, even more than what blueberries have.
Formed With Fiber
Purple yams contain plenty of fiber to keep the digestive tract running smoothly. It offers more than 4 grams, which equates to 11 percent of a person’s daily recommended intake. Eating a serving of the vegetable regularly can help people ease constipation and other digestive problems. Eating a full cup of diced purple yams can offer up to 6 grams of fiber, making it a beneficial snack.
Fewer Calories Than Potatoes and Rice
Too many people use regular potatoes or rice as their main side dishes. Both of these options contain high calories and sometimes fat, depending on how they’re made. Rather than choosing these common sides, people should substitute with purple yams instead. They contain fewer calories and fat than the other two choices and make for a healthier meal addition.
Potassium for the Heart
Potassium is known to help the heart. Without it, the heart cannot function properly. The nutrient helps the kidneys filter blood and the heart to pump that blood through the rest of the body. Purple yams contain a high amount of potassium, even more so than a large banana. There’s over 800 mg in a typical serving, and even more in a full cup of the diced vegetable.
Switch out the basic yams you buy with some purple yams and reap the benefits. Their color adds extra flavor and antioxidant properties to any dish. If regular grocers in the area don’t carry any, try a health food store or local farmers market instead.
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