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is needed to determine whether mashua or its active compounds could be beneficial in treating these diseases. The

effects of consuming mashwa also show promise as a possible form of male birth control. In one study, the

authors found a significant decrease in male fertility as measured by sperm motility and concentration after

continued consumption of mashwa (Vasquez et al).

YACON

Yacon is a root that that grows

near sea level throughout the Andes. It has

a sweet taste, and is eaten raw after a few

days baking in the sun. Interestingly, the

plant becomes sweeter while it is exposed

to the sun through a process called starch

conversion. Yacon contains a variety of

sugars, including a high quantity of fructo-oligosaccharides. Fructo-oligosaccharides are a special class of sugars

that taste sweet, but are unable to be digested and absorbed by the human body (Satoh et. al). Due to these

nondigestible sugars and a relatively high water content, yacon has a surprisingly low calorie density and a sweet

taste. It is often made into a thick syrup, that could potentially replace sugar or high fructose corn syrup.

Naturally, this root appears to be a great choice for people who are trying to lose weight or control their blood

sugar.

Several studies have been undertaken to explore the properties of yacon and the effects of consuming the

plant on human health. One study found that daily consumption of yacon syrup by obese premenopausal women

led to a “significant decrease in body weight, waist circumference and body mass index. Additionally, a decrease

in fasting serum insulin was observed. The consumption of yacon syrup increased defecation frequency and

satiety sensation. Fasting glucose and serum lipids were not affected by syrup treatment” (Genta et. al). Another

study was able to investigate the mechanism by which yacon lowers blood sugar, and found that the reduction is

likely due to yacon’s beneficial effects on hepatic insulin sensitivity in the insulin resistant state (Satoh et. al).

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