This tropical vegetable can be relished as a gravy, chutney, pickle and more

Recently, Nutritionist Lovneet Batra took to Instagram to share the various health benefits of elephant foot yam. “Jimikand, also known as elephant foot yam or suran, is a desi healthful veggie that comes with a host of health benefits. Read more to know why you should include it in your diet,” she wrote in the caption.

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Here are some benefits of elephant foot yam, according to Batra:

*A powerhouse of Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, selenium, magnesium, and phosphorus, Kanda vegetable improves the functioning of the brain, memory, focus and concentration.

*Eating elephant foot yam can increase the estrogen levels in women, thus helping to maintain the hormonal balance. It is also high in vitamin B-6, which provides relief from premenstrual syndrome in women.

*Elephant Foot yam is a natural probiotic that safeguards gut flora and fauna. The antibacterial components in this vegetable fight with infections, clean toxins and other pathogens that cause issues in the digestive tract.

*Elephant foot yam is a healthy low-fat food and is a rich source of essential fatty acids (Omega-3 fatty acids), which are known to increase the good anti-cholesterol levels in the blood.

Adding to this, Dr Sushma said it has the ability to lower sugar levels, helps relieve pain, treats gastrointestinal disorders like piles, abdominal pain, and constipation, has significant antibacterial activity and hepatoprotective properties, contains antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

However, she stressed that elephant foot yam is generally not recommended for consumption during summer. “It is a heat-producing food and may generate excessive body heat, which can be uncomfortable during hot weather,” she added.

Safety and risks

it can be prepared in many culinary varieties such as gravy, curry, chutney, bharta, finger sticks, pickle and even French fries. (Source: Freepik)

While elephant foot yam is generally safe for consumption, it can pose potential risks if not prepared or cooked properly. “Raw or undercooked yam may contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation in the mouth and throat. It is important to peel, cook and boil yam adequately to reduce the oxalate content and eliminate any potential risks,” said Dr Sushma.

Additionally, the expert said that individuals with certain health conditions should avoid or consume elephant foot yams with caution. “People with diabetes should be mindful of its carbohydrate content and monitor their blood sugar levels. Additionally, those with kidney problems or a history of kidney stones should limit their intake due to the presence of oxalates in yams.”

Concluding, she noted that you must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. “Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an Ayurvedic or herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.”

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