THE YAM OR SWEET POTATO

A close friend was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes several years ago and found it necessary to give up eating the ordinary white potato which had been a mainstay for all of us born on the prairies. She now prefers the yam and I do as well as I learn more about its many benefits including a low glycemic index. Colored vegetables and fruits are also high in vitamin A.

Known in ancient Scotland as the yam, this root vegetable replaces the potato in tropical countries and known in southern U.S. as the sweet potato. It has risen to prominence recently because of the growing concern and increase of Type 2 diabetes. There are currently more than two million Canadians living with diabetes.

A book published in 1969 with a forward by William A. McGarey M.D. has found that many of his patients who have been willing to change their eating habits can reduce their insulin needs. Even grade school children have learned to study the glycemic index of various food items and are responsible for pricking their finger to determine how much of any food item they should consume.

In February of 2010 I cut off both ends of several yams and planted them indoors. They sprouted up with heart shaped leaves that climbed up my window sill and produced a lovely flower the shape and color of a morning glory. One of the men who sells vegetables at the Farmers Market told me he will be planting some yams in a protected area like one does with tomatoes and transplant them outside for selling in the fall.