7 Amazing Reasons Why You Must Include Corn In Your Diet

Corn, also known as maize is a cereal grain that originated in southern Mexico. The kernels or seeds of corn are the edible parts. It can be eaten whole when it is very young and tender. But as it matures, the corncob or the part on which the kernels grow becomes harder and inedible. They come in multiple colors, depending on where they have grown and what species or variety they happen to be.

Corn is a favorite of summertime cookouts especially after popped, it is perfect for movie nights or parties. After drying, it is ground into flour, and its seeds become corn flour, which is used for tortillas, chips, and crackers. In this form, it is a grain, not a vegetable, and it is one that comes with a lot of goodness.

# Prevents Constipation

The fiber content in one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount. This aids in alleviating digestive problems such as constipation and hemorrhoids, due to maize being a whole-grain. One study found that corn barn was significantly better than wheat barn in relieving constipation.

Dietary fiber can help bulk and soften stools, promoting regular elimination, and decreasing straining. This process is done by stimulating the peristaltic motion and the production of gastric juice and bile. By adding bulk to loose stools, the chances for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea can be greatly reduced.

# Weight Gain

Corn, especially the yellow variety, is a rich source of calories and is a staple in many places. The calorific content of sweet yellow and white corn is 96 calories per 100 grams. This is why it is often turned to for quick weight gain.

# Provides Essential Minerals

Corn contains several essential minerals that can help in ensuring proper growth and fighting diseases. According to a 2017 study, published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, it is an important source for Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Mg, and P. The nutritional composition can, however, vary according to the way it is harvested and processed. The nutritional content is best preserved when it is eaten whole or as popcorn. Steaming, boiling, or roasting lowers the nutritional content.

# Protects Your Heart

According to research, corn oil has been shown to have an anti-atherogenic effect on cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Corn oil, in particular, is the best way to improve 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 LDL or bad cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This can reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, lower blood pressure, and minimize the risk of heart attack and stroke.

# Eye & Skin Care

Yellow corn is a rich source of beta-carotene, which forms vitamin A in the body and is essential for the maintenance of good vision and skin. As per a study published in the journal Science, beta-carotene is a great source of vitamin A because it is converted into the body according to the amount required. Vitamin A can be toxic if too much is consumed, so deriving it through beta-carotene transformation is ideal. It may also benefit the health of skin and mucous membranes, as well as boost the immune system.

# Manages Diabetes

In recent decades, the world has seemed to suffer from an epidemic of diabetes. Although the exact mechanism for this cannot be pinpointed, it is generally related to nutrition.

# Cosmetic Benefits

Cornstarch is used in the manufacturing of many cosmetic products and may also be applied topically to soothe skin rashes and irritation. Its products can be used to replace carcinogenic petroleum products which are major components of many cosmetic preparations. Many of the traditional skin creams contain petroleum jelly as a base material, which can often block pores and make skin conditions even worse.