Health

 

CORN AND ITS HEALTH BENEFITS

    By Anuoluwa Omolafe

     GEO 300L

      It's the season of corn and it can be found virtually everywhere (shouts of agbado ijoo reee, draws many attention) as majority love its sweet taste, “who no like better thing”.  It can be boiled, roasted or even added to our meals to give it that classic taste. 

    A lot of people are confused with corn: Is it a vegetable, or a carb? And is it actually good for you?

Technically, corn is a member of the whole grain family. And yes, it can be very good for you. Corn is also naturally gluten-free, which makes it a good alternative to wheat for those who must avoid gluten. 

Here are four more unique health benefits of corn.

1. Corns packs whole-grain perks

As a whole grain, corn is in a health-protective food category. Numerous studies have tied whole grain consumption to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. (Yes, corn is linked to a lower  risk of obesity despite its carb content as a grain). But of course, portion size matters. Try to choose portions that are in line with your bodys needs and activity level. For most adult women, that would mean one ear of corn, a half cup of oven-roasted kernels, or three cups of popcorn in one sitting.

2. It's full of key nutrients

Corn contains a variety of B vitamins, as well as potassium. The latter mineral supports healthy blood pressure, heart functioning, muscle contractions, prevents muscle cramps, and helps maintain muscle mass. Corn also supplies about 10 times more vitamin A than most other grains. In addition to protection against cognitive decline, vitamin A supports the immune system, and helps to form the mucous membranes in your respiratory tract. Stronger membranes form better protective barriers to keep germs out of your bloodstream.

3. Corn provides protective antioxidants

Lutein and zeaxanthin, corns main carotenoids (or pigments), help protect your eyes, and have been shown to reduce the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts. Meanwhile the antioxidant quercetin has been shown to combat both acute and chronic inflammation, and protect against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's. Quercetin has also been linked to apoptosis, the self-destructive sequence the body uses to kill off worn out or dysfunctional cells. They also guard against oxidative stress, an imbalance between the production of cell-damaging free radicals and the body's ability to counter their harmful effects. And it's good for your digestion

4. Another health benefit of eating corn:

 you get a dose of insoluble fiber, which isn't broken down and absorbed into the bloodstream. Insoluble fiber stays in the GI tract, increases stool bulk, and helps to push waste through your system. This prevents constipation, reduces the risk of hemorrhoids, and may help lower colon cancer risk. Corns fiber may also help support weight management by increasing post-meal feelings of fullness.