The benefits of corn for health need not be doubted. This food plant, which is often used as a substitute for rice, is known to contain a variety of nutrients that are good for the body and are able to prevent various types of diseases
Corn (Zea mays) has become a staple food for some people in Indonesia. The taste is savory and sweet, making corn widely processed into various types of food and drinks.
In fact, corn is often used as a basic ingredient to make corn flour and corn oil. Behind its various uses, corn also offers a variety of benefits for the body.
Nutrient Content in Corn
Apart from being a source of carbohydrates, corn contains various nutrients such as protein, fiber, as well as various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium.
In addition, corn also contains a small amount of fat. However, you do not need to worry, because the type of fat contained in it is a kind of good fat.
Compared to other grains, corn contains more antioxidants, such as ferulic acid, phytic acid, anthocyanins, as well as zeaxanthin and lutein which are good for eye health.
Various Benefits of Corn for Health
Thanks to its abundant nutritional content, there are various health benefits of corn that you can get, namely:
1. Overcoming constipation
Corn is rich in fiber which is known to be good for digestion and treat constipation. However, constipation can not only be overcome by eating corn alone, but also by drinking more water, exercising regularly, and improving diet.
2. Control blood sugar levels
Corn is included in the food group with a low glycemic index, so it does not trigger spikes in blood sugar levels. This makes corn good for consumption by diabetics or people who are at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Maintain heart health
The content of vitamin E and phytosterols in corn is known to control cholesterol levels in the body, thus preventing heart disease.
In addition, a study also revealed that those who regularly consume corn and beans as a substitute for white rice are known to have a lower risk of heart disease.
4. Overcoming depression
Keep in mind that nutrient-rich foods are known to be good for maintaining mental health. Although there is no specific nutrient or diet that can cure depression, several studies have shown that good nutrition can affect a person's mental health.
One type of food is corn which is known to contain complex carbohydrates, B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin D, as well as omega-3 fatty acids as essential nutrients needed by the brain.
5. Keepingeye health
Corn contains carotenoid antioxidants, such as zeaxanthin and lutein. Both of these antioxidants play a role in inhibiting eye cell damage due to the aging process and nutritional deficiencies.
This is what makes corn good for consumption to maintain eye health and prevent various eye diseases, such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
6. Preventing diverticulitis
The high fiber content in corn is not only good for maintaining digestive tract health, but also prevents diverticulitis, a form of inflammation in the large intestine.
A study revealed that someone who regularly consumes corn in any form can reduce the risk of developing diverticulosis by 28%. However, the benefits of corn on this one still need to be studied further.
To get the maximum benefits of corn, you are advised to consume fresh corn and not in processed forms, such as corn syrup.
Although the various benefits of corn above still require further research, there is nothing wrong if you start making it a part of your daily diet. You can also consult a doctor to find out the amount of corn intake that suits your conditions and needs.