5 Reasons Why Maize Grain Flour Is Good For Your Health

Maize (Zea mays L), also called as ‘corn’ or ‘makki’ in India, is believed to have been domesticated in Mexico about 9000 years ago. It arrived in India along with the Portuguese in the 16th century when they brought maize crop here from Europe. However, the real push to the cultivation of maize came during the rule of the British in early 19th century when they decided to develop commercial crops in India and brought maize varieties to India.

Maize is a versatile, most produced grain in the world, grown throughout the year and across different agro-climatic regions of the world.

In India, it is the third most important cereal crop after wheat and rice. Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are the major producers of the maize.

# Good for Eyes

Maize flour is rich in Lutein and Zeaxanthin, the two carotenoids which are responsible for giving yellow and red hues to fruits and vegetables. Both these compounds help in preventing or reducing instances of macular degeneration. These two compounds prevents the blue light from entering the retina and causing oxidative damage which could lead to macular degeneration. This makes corn flour good for eyes.

# Prevents Anemia

Corn flour is rich is iron, vitamin B6, vitamin B12 and folic acid which help in creation of haemoglobin in blood. This leads to creation of more red blood cells in body and prevents anaemia.

# Lowers blood sugar

Corn flour is rich in polyphenols and fiber. Both these components help in reducing the blood sugar levels (Type-2) and cholesterol. Addition of insoluble fiber in diet slows down process of digestion which reduces the hyperglycemia. Similar effect is also noticed with intake of polyphenols which improve insulin secretion to neutralise blood sugar levels.

# Helps in Haemorrhoids

It is quite common for people suffering from haemorrhoids to be advised more fiber intake and staying hydrated with intake of more water and other fluids. Dietary fiber is of two types-soluble and insoluble. Both of these types of fibers are good for our body. The soluble one dissolves in water and makes the stool smooth to move while the insoluble one helps to keep the stool move easily through intestines without causing any constipation. Since the excreta does not accumulate anywhere in the body with intake of fiber, the condition of haemorrhoid is prevented.

# Good for hair health

Corn flour is rich in multi-vitamins, especially vitamin C. Vitamin C helps the body to produce ‘collagen’, which is the main structural protein in connecting tissues. It also helps in absorption of iron which makes it good for healthy hair.