Yam: why food is an ally of women –

In the North and Northeast of our country, the yam part of the daily menu. Over there, this tuber is present even at breakfast. But it should be a mandatory item in the diet of every Brazilian, especially women, and at any age. Just to list some benefits: softens menstrual cramps and other PMS symptoms, reinforces the body’s defenses and stimulates the libido. The yam still has action anti-inflammatory and therefore leaves the body less susceptible to accumulating liquid and toxins. This means getting rid of the extra fat accumulated around the waist.

more fertility

Not only that. “Regular consumption of yams is believed to stimulate the production of more than one egg per reproductive cycle“, inform Pedro Accioly de Sá and José Lopes Filho in the book Inhame – O Nordeste Fértil (Ed. Ufal – Federal University of Alagoas). Ancient civilizations such as the Mayans and Aztecs seemed to already know this. They encouraged women to include the tuber in their diet to become more fertile.

Today, scientific studies prove: “The power of yams to increase fertility comes from the phyto-hormone diosgenin, which, in the body, helps in the synthesis of female sex hormones”, explains nutritionist Rosângela Augusto Pires, from the Center for Studies and Research Dr. João Amorim (Suck).

Less TPM

But what most attracts the attention of specialists is the capacity of the tuber to balance the levels of progesterone. And, with that, alleviate the symptoms of PMS (colic, irritation, anxiety) and menopause (hot flashes, vaginal dryness), in addition to reducing the risk of bone loss.

The anti-inflammatory power of yam also comes from there: progesterone prevents hormones favorable to the accumulation of toxins – and, consequently, inflammation of cells and the body in general – from taking action.

the right dose

How much to consume to get the benefits? “One portion, at least three times a week”, recommends Rosângela. But, as it is a source of carbohydrates, it should replace bread for breakfast or rice for lunch or dinner. You can also try the creamed yam with spinach (see the recipe here) – suggested by the nutritionist.

Don’t worry about the scale: “Unlike potatoes, yams have Sugar level low and, therefore, offers a 50% lower risk of raising blood sugar”, says Rosângela. That is, the food avoids peaks of insulin and, consequently, a lower risk of gaining weight.

rich in beta caroteneB complex vitamins, calcium and potassium, the yam also helps in bone health and tissue maintenance, in addition to increasing our defenses. Ready to make the tuber your ally?