Yam (Note: The Weight May Slightly Vary)

May prevent and ease arthritis symptoms Wild yam root contains diosgenin, which has been shown to limit the progression of both osteoporosis arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In one study, mice who were given wild yam extract daily for 90 days showed a drop in inflammation and, at higher doses, pain levels. We need much more research to determine whether it might have these same effects in humans. May reduce cholesterol When diosgenin taken from wild yam root was given to mice for 4 weeks, it lowered both their overall cholesterol levels and their LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Researchers say their results suggest that diosgenin could lower body weight and cholesterol levels. But human studies are still needed. May improve hormone balance Scientists can use the diosgenin in yams to produce estrogen, progesterone, cortisone, and other hormones for medical use. in alternative medicine, yam cream is often used in place of estrogen cream to relieve symptoms of menopause. Women are sometimes advised to eat yams to help balance their hormones, and people with hormone-related conditions are discouraged from using yams medicinally.