In recent years, ube yams have become trendy and can now be found in drinks, desserts, and snacks at your local cafe or coffee shop. The tuberous root vegetable originates from Southeast Asia and has purple flesh with brownish skin. Apart from its unique taste, the ingredient also provides various health benefits. Here are a few reasons to include this food in your diet.

What Are the Health Benefits of Ube Yams?

1. Lowers Inflammation & Blood Pressure

Chronic, low-level inflammation can play a role in various diseases, including Type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's. It can also lead to high blood pressure, damaging the heart, arteries, brain, kidneys, and eyes. 

Luckily, deep blue and purple foods, like ube yams, are rich in flavonoids called anthocyanins. These compounds contain anti-inflammatory properties that help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and improve circulation. Drinking an ube tea at a cafe can combat the unfavorable effects of inflammation on the body. 

2. Improves Gut Health

Ube yams are a good source of complex carbohydrates and potassium, which aid in digestion. They are also packed with resistant starch, which feeds the beneficial bacteria that keep your digestive tract healthy. Additionally, the fiber found in ube yams can help prevent constipation, diarrhea, and other bowel conditions.

3. Boosts Immunity

It may be hard to believe, but the scrumptious yam dessert at a cafe can help ward off illnesses. One cup of cooked ube contains 40% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. This nutrient boosts the production of white blood cells known as lymphocytes and phagocytes, which help protect the body against infection.

Reap the health benefits of these yams by enjoying the signature homemade ube smoothie at Xpresso Cafe in Waipahu, HI. The family-owned business serves delicious coffee, boba tea, smoothies, and desserts to customers all over Oahu. You can also pair your drink with one of their sandwiches or melts. Visit their website to browse their menu, and call (808) 744-8091 to place an order.