The spleen and stomach are the foundation of our postnatal health. A good spleen and stomach can absorb and supplement the nutrients in the food we eat, giving us a healthy body. Many people nowadays suffer from stomach problems due to unhealthy lifestyles, staying up late, skipping breakfast, not having time for meals due to overtime work, and so on. Over time, this can lead to gastric diseases, causing symptoms like bloating, stomach pain, and indigestion.
Yam, also known as Chinese yam or Huai yam, is a common food in our daily life. Yam is rich in protein, vitamins, calcium, and other substances, with high nutritional value. In our daily lives, we consume yam as a staple food or as a vegetable.
Now, let’s introduce the benefits of regularly consuming yam:
1. Relieves cough and benefits the lungs
Yam contains mucilage saponins that have a good nourishing effect on the lungs. For those who have persistent coughs with phlegm, eating some yam can help relieve the cough.
2. Lowers blood sugar
For individuals with diabetes, yam helps control blood sugar levels effectively by improving insulin sensitivity. The mucoprotein in yam also aids in lowering blood sugar and prevents cardiovascular diseases. People with diabetes can include yam as a staple in their diet.
3. Benefits the spleen and stomach
There is a saying, “White yam surpasses ginseng.” White yam has a soft texture and low starch content. Regular consumption can help nourish the kidneys, strengthen the spleen, improve brain function, nourish the lungs, and enhance beauty. However, yam also has astringent properties, so individuals with frequent diarrhea or poor spleen and stomach function should avoid consuming it.
While yam is beneficial, there are considerations when consuming it:
1. Avoid excessive consumption of yam
Yam contains estrogen, and excessive consumption by women may stimulate hormones, leading to endometrial hyperplasia. This can result in symptoms like dysmenorrhea or menstrual irregularities.
2. Avoid consuming yam with fish or shrimp
Yam is incompatible with shrimp and also fish. If yam is consumed with these foods together, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
3. Avoid consuming yam with carrots, cucumbers
Consuming yam with carrots, cucumbers, or pumpkins can deteriorate the vitamin C content in yam.
Remember these taboos when consuming yam. Additionally, yam can be paired with other foods for increased effects. For instance, when combined with lotus seeds, it can help with menstrual abnormalities and mood regulation. During a cold, preparing yam with red dates can enhance the body’s immunity when consumed regularly.
