Although they have a similar appearance and their names are used interchangeably, yams and sweet potatoes are not related vegetables. But despite their differences in origin, yams and sweet potatoes do have some nutritional commonalities.
Origin
Yams are native to Africa and their botany is closely related to lilies and grasses. Sweet potatoes are indigenous to the Americas and they are members of the morning glory family.
Vitamins and Fiber
Both yams and sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin C, vitamin B6 and dietary fiber. But when it comes to the powerful antioxidant vitamin A, sweet potatoes have the edge with their beta-carotene rich flesh.
Fertility
Yams have a reputation as a natural fertility drug since they produce "estrogenic" effects that promote ovulation. Although sweet potatoes have a wealth of health benefits, they do not share this claim.
Diabetes
Despite their sweet flavor, both yams and sweet potatoes are beneficial foods for diabetics. Yams have a low glycemic index and sweet potatoes are proven to curtail blood sugar levels.
Trivia
Typically, yams are only available in Asian or African markets. The "yams" commonly sold by American grocers are actually soft sweet potatoes.
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