They are the same thing. BUT, do be confused as to candied yams vs sweet potato. Sweet potatoes are great (if you leave the butter off!) carbs and a great bodybuilding food. It is a complex carb. I personally like the Texas LoneStar Sweet Potatoes with butter and sugar/cinnamon, but it will ruin my diet! Anyway, stay away from the yams in cans. They are generally sweetened with corn syrup which is too much sugar. Normal baked sweet potatoes are great! Also, try them cut up and bake them in the oven. Excellent source of vitamins (beta-c). Geoff