Corn is quite the snack to many people. Its versatility and multiple benefits make corn one of the widely consumed cereal grains. It can be boiled, roasted or barbecued. While it can be eaten directly, it also comes in many varieties.

 

Popcorn and sweet corn are popular varieties of corn (also known as maize). They can as well be used as ingredients in processed food such as corn flour, corn syrup, corn oil, cornmeal and tortilla chips.

 

The enhancement in the DNA of the corn resulted in different varieties that exist today. It is typically yellow in colour but also comes in other variety of colours such as red, orange, purple, blue, white and even black.

 

 

Corn originated from a wild grass called teosinte and is grown in countless parts of the world. It became popular due to its ability to grow in diverse climatic conditions and its ease of storage. This is most beneficial for people with low income who can easily grow it as it is quite affordable to achieve. It is a ready source of carbohydrate, protein and calories for an addition to a balanced diet.

 

Generally, they are rich in fibre, minerals, antioxidants, vitamins and has a great source of energy. However you choose to eat it, the pearl-like corn on a cob will nourish you in its healthiest form.

 

Sight, they say, is what appeals some before the smell.

 

When you behold the sight of these pearl-like heads of maize, you would find yourself craving to have a taste of it. What’s even more astounding is that you will not regret having a taste of this refreshing cereal grain.

 

There’s a reason people favour this earthy snack, and it’s more than the appetising taste. Corn has health benefits that make it glorified by nutritionists.

What good does corn do to the body

 

Corn acts as a great antioxidant for the body. It is rich in a group of antioxidants called carotenoids – lutein and zeaxanthin that help to combat the effect of radicals in the body. These radicals are responsible for ageing and the growth of some chronic diseases. It is no news that carotenoids are very good for your eyes. This is because they help to prevent any damage that may be caused by free radicals cells.

 

It also contains dietary fibre that helps your body digest food easily, hence reducing the risk of constipation and haemorrhoids. This in result can help you live longer. Although it contains lower fibre content when compared to other vegetables, one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount.

 

Meanwhile, the protein level in corn is higher when compared with other vegetables.

 

This makes it a good option for vegetarians or vegans hoping to add some protein to their diet. Protein has a tendency of making you feel full and can, therefore, help in reducing your hunger pang if you desire to go on a diet. An added advantage is that it can help you burn calories while you’re at it.

 

It is also rich in vitamins and minerals that can help to combat anaemia. When your body is deficient in iron and folate needed to form new red blood cells, you need to replenish your system. A great source of the iron needed is through the corn, which contains 2.7 mg of iron per 100 gram of corn.

 

Finally, while the benefits of corn are non-exhaustive, one major benefit worth mentioning is the prevention of Alzheimer. Corn is a source of thymine which is an antioxidant that sharpens the brain’s functions. Therefore, when taken, it helps to synthesise the acetylcholine. This, in turn, leads to better memory.