Health Benefits of Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is one of the most popular vegetables. It is loved by adults and children alike because of its sweet flavor. Corn not only provides the necessary calories for healthy, daily metabolism, but sweet corn is also very rich in vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B5, vitamin C, phosphorus, manganese, folate, and dietary fiber. Its high fiber content ensures that it plays a significant role in the prevention of digestive ailments like constipation and hemorrhoids as well as colorectal cancer. The antioxidants present in corn also act as anti-carcinogenic agents and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Corn is rich in vitamin B constituents, especially Thiamin and Niacin. Thiamin is essential for maintaining nerve health and cognitive function. Niacin deficiency leads to Pellagra; a disease characterized by diarrhea, dementia, and dermatitis that is commonly observed in malnourished individuals. Corn is also a good source of Pantothenic acid, which is an essential vitamin for carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism in the body. The deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women can lead to the birth of underweight infants and may also result in neural tube defects in newborns. Corn provides a large percentage of the daily folate requirement while the kernels of corn are rich in vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that is essential for the growth and protection of the body from illness and disease.
Corn contains abundant minerals that positively benefit the body in a number of ways. phosphorous, along with magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, and copper are found in all varieties of corn. It also contains trace minerals like selenium, which are difficult to find in most normal diets. Phosphorous is essential for regulating normal growth, bone health, and optimal kidney functioning. Magnesium is necessary for maintaining a normal heart rate and for increasing bone strength.
According to the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, consumption of corn husk oil lowers plasma LDL cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption in the body. As mentioned earlier, this reduction of LDL cholesterol does not mean a reduction in HDL cholesterol, which is considered “good cholesterol” and can have a variety of beneficial effects on the body, including the reduction of heart disease, prevention of atherosclerosis, and a general scavenger of free radicals throughout the body.
Cardiovascular Health
Sweet corn is an excellent source of folate. Folate is commonly known as vitamin B9. According to NaturalHomeRemedies.org, the consumption of folate is effective in lowering the homocysteine levels in the body. Homocysteine is an amino acid that can damage blood vessels. Elevated levels of homocysteine in the body can directly lead to heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral vascular disease. Consumption of 100 percent of the daily value of folate can reduce the risk of heart attack by as much as 10 percent. Corn oil, particularly, is the best way to increase heart health, and this is derived from the fact that corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging “bad” cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, will reduce blood pressure, and decrease the chance of heart attack and stroke.
Reduces the risk of hemorrhoids and colorectal cancer
The fiber content of one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount. This aids in alleviating digestive problems such as constipation and hemorrhoids, as well as lowering the risk of colon cancer due to corn being a whole grain. Fiber has long been promoted as a way to reduce colon risk, but insufficient and conflicting data exist for fiber’s relationship with preventing cancer, although whole-grain consumption, on the whole, has been proven to reduce that risk. Fiber helps to bulk up bowel movements, which stimulates peristaltic motion and even stimulates the production of gastric juice and bile. It can also add bulk to overly loose stools, which can slow reduce the chances of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.
Memory Enhancement
Sweet corn contains high levels of thiamine or vitamin B1. According to WHFoods.org, thiamine is an essential nutrient required for brain cells and cognitive function. Consumption of thiamine is necessary for the body to produce acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that is essential for the maintenance of memory capabilities. One of the primary factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease is low levels of acetylcholine.
Vision Protection
According to AusFoodNews.com.au, sweet corn contains the antioxidant zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin is the yellow pigment that naturally occurs in sweet corn. Consumption of zeaxanthin can have a protective effect against age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration. In addition, sweet corn also contains folate and beta-carotene, which also may protect against macular degeneration.
Prevents Anemia
Vitamin B12 and folic acid present in corn prevent anemia caused by a deficiency of these vitamins. Corn also has a significant level of iron, which is one of the essential minerals needed to form new red blood cells; a deficiency in iron is one of the main causes of anemia as well.
Cosmetic benefits
Sweet corn starch is used in the manufacturing of many cosmetic products and may also be applied topically to soothe skin rashes and irritation. Corn products can be used to replace carcinogenic petroleum products which are major components of many cosmetic preparations. Many traditional skin ceams contain petroleum jelly as a base material, which can often block pores and make skin conditions even worse.
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Sweet corn is a beloved staple in many kitchens, known for its crisp texture and naturally sweet flavor. To enjoy it at its best, it's important to know how to choose and store it properly. Here are some tips to ensure your sweet corn stays fresh and delicious. Choosing the Perfect Sweet Corn Look for Green Husks: When picking sweet corn, start by checking the husks. They should be green color and tightly wrapped around the cob. If you notice any brown or dried-out husks, it's a sign that the corn isn't fresh. Feel for Firm Kernels: Give the corn a gentle squeeze through the husk. The kernels should feel firm and plump. If they’re mushy or shriveled, put that cob back – it’s past its prime. Check the Silk: The silk (those thread-like strands coming out of the top) should be slightly sticky to the touch and look fresh. Depending on the variety of sweet corn, the color can range from light to dark, so focus more on its condition rather than the specific color. Check for Insects: Look for any small holes or damaged areas on the husk. These could be signs of insect infestation. A clean, undamaged husk is what you’re aiming for. Storing Sweet Corn Refrigerate Immediately: Corn starts to lose its sweetness as soon as it’s picked, so refrigerate it as soon as possible to preserve its flavor. According to the University of Illinois Extension, corn can lose up to 50% of its sugar within 24 hours if not refrigerated. Keep the Husks On: Store the corn with the husks still on. They act as a natural protective barrier and help retain moisture. Reader testimonial: “I’ve always kept the husks on my sweet corn before storing it, and it’s remained fresh and flavorful for several days.” Use a Plastic Bag: Place the ears of corn in a plastic bag to keep them from drying out. Make sure the bag is closed tightly. Freeze for Long-Term Storage: If you can't use the corn within a few days, remove the…
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Is your Sweet corn genetically modified ?
No. Those genetic modified is mix color corn.