What is Yacon and its Health Benefits?

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Yacon, more commonly known as the Peruvian ground

apple means "water root" in Inca language. Yacon Syrup is a

natural sweetener extracted from the tuberous roots of the

South American yacon plant. Composing mostly of a type of

sugar called fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and water, yacon

syrup is full of high nutritional properties, leading to an

assortment of health benefits. Here are some reasons why

the highly nutritious yacon is incredibly beneficial for our

bodies’ general health. Image via YaconHealthBenefit.com

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Regulate Blood Sugar Levels

Yacon is used often for its anti-hyperclycemic effects as it is

rich in fructooligosaccharides, derived from inulin, an

indigestible carbohydrate. Inulin provides about half the

sweetness of sugar without increasing blood sugar levels.

Furthermore, fructooligosaccharides also inhibit the

absorption of simple sugars when ingested as well as lower

the amount of glucose production in the liver and thereafter

bring about a shift to lower fasting glucose rates. This is

especially beneficial to people suffering from diabetes, such

as the Type II Diabetes.

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Manage Blood Pressure

As a natural vasodilator with high levels of potassium,

yacon helps to relax blood vessels and to reduce strain on

the cardiovascular system, thus allowing unhindered flow of

blood, nutrients and oxygen to all body tissues and cells.

Additionally, the high levels of potassium in yacon along

with sodium also help to regulate the fluid balance in our

bodies' cells and tissues.Image via Wikipedia

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Facilitate Weight Loss

Yacon is not composed of starch, therefore it has a very low

level of calories as well as the ability to increase satiety

without having to eat more. Yacon also has a slight laxative

effect, most likely due to its fibre content, which is thought

to facilitate safe weight loss. Moreover, yacon has

properties that can lower lipid levels and prevent excessive

cholesterol accumulation. Image by PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay

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Increase Energy Levels

Staying active is easier with yacon as its active

prebiotic effects can help to boost metabolism,

which will then lead to an increased energy

level. The increasing energy levels will

subsequently help to burn more calories.

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Improve Immune System Function

Considering that it is vital to maintain our

bodies’ immune system, yacon is capable of

building up and protecting our bodies’

defences so as to combat diseases, especially

diseases that affect various organ systems.

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