Introduction: Winter is the season for yams. Many people use yams to make congee, soups, and as a staple in hot pot. These habits are more like traditions, but in fact, they are very much in line with the seasonal requirements. Yams, especially fresh ones, are very suitable for winter consumption, not only because of their diverse benefits but also because their effects can alleviate some common ailments brought on by winter.
Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases
Winter, with its large temperature differences between indoors and outdoors and generally low temperatures, is one of the peak seasons for cardiovascular diseases. Yams contain a large amount of mucin protein, vitamins, and trace elements, which can effectively prevent the deposition of lipids on blood vessel walls, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and have the effect of lowering blood pressure and calming the mind, making them very suitable for consumption in winter.
Blueberry Mashed Yams
Strengthening the Spleen and Benefiting the Stomach, Aiding Digestion
In winter, physical activity tends to decrease unintentionally. Coupled with the drop in temperature, the body's metabolic rate slows down. Additionally, the increased frequency of eating hot pot raises the risk of developing gastrointestinal diseases. Yams contain substances like amylase and polyphenol oxidase, which are beneficial to the digestive and absorption functions of the spleen and stomach. It is a food and medicine that gently nourishes the spleen and stomach. It can be consumed whether there is a deficiency of spleen yang or stomach yin. Clinically, it is often used with other herbs to treat conditions such as weak spleen and stomach, poor appetite, fatigue, and diarrhea. Therefore, it's a good idea to add yams to soups and hot pots in winter.
Benefiting the Lungs and Relieving Coughs
Winter is dry and cold, which is quite damaging to the lungs and throat. People can easily experience a dry or even sore throat in winter. Yams contain saponins and mucilage, both of which have lubricating and moisturizing effects. Therefore, they can benefit lung qi, nourish lung yin, and treat symptoms such as lung deficiency, phlegmatic cough, and chronic cough.
Yams with Fish Balls
Nourishing the Kidneys and Promoting Health
Yams contain a variety of nutrients and have the effect of strengthening the body and nourishing the kidneys and essence. Moreover, there are fewer vegetables and fruits in winter, and they are more expensive. Eating yams can provide vitamins as a substitute for vegetables and fruits. However, remember not to eat yams with bananas, as this can cause diarrhea.
Lowering Blood Sugar
Yams contain mucin protein, which can lower blood sugar. Adding them to regular dishes can also prevent sudden spikes in blood sugar caused overeating. Long-term consumption can also help prevent and manage diabetes.
Pork Bone Soup with Yams