The benefits of corn for pregnant women need not be doubted. This food plant which is often used as a substitute for rice has a variety of nutrients that are good for the health of pregnant women and fetal growth and development.
During pregnancy, every pregnant woman is recommended to eat nutritious food, both for the health of the mother and the development of the fetus. One of the food choices that contain high nutrients and is very easy to find is corn.
Pregnant women can consume corn by boiling it or as a complementary ingredient to salads. Corn can also be processed into a variety of dishes, such as corn soup.
Corn Nutrient Content
Corn is often used as a staple food substitute for rice because of its high carbohydrate content. Not only that, in 100 grams of corn, it also contains about 88 calories and the following various nutrients:
- 3 grams of protein
- 2 grams of fiber
- 300 milligrams of phosphorus
- 5 milligrams of calcium
- 50 milligrams sodium
- 0.5 milligrams of iron
- 40 milligrams of magnesium
- 350 milligrams of potassium
- 30 micrograms of folate
- 20 micrograms selenium
- 3 milligrams of zinc
- 250 IU of vitamin A
Corn also contains a variety of nutrients that are important for pregnant women, such as B vitamins, vitamin E, vitamin K, as well as a variety of antioxidants including anthocyanins, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Benefits of Corn for Pregnant Women
Thanks to its abundant nutritional content, corn has a variety of benefits for pregnant women, including:
1. Sufficient energy needs
About 50 percent of the calories needed by the body are obtained from foods that contain carbohydrates. One of the foods that contain high carbohydrates is corn. The content of complex carbohydrates in corn is good for meeting energy needs during pregnancy.
2. Smooth digestion
Corn contains a lot of fiber which is good for the digestive system. The fiber content can also prevent pregnant women from constipation, one of the complaints that often occurs during pregnancy.
Every pregnant woman is also advised to drink more water so that digestive health is maintained.
3. Supports fetal growth and development
Corn also contains protein that is beneficial for pregnant women and fetuses. During pregnancy, protein plays an important role in the formation of cells and tissues of the fetus.
With adequate protein intake, the fetus will grow and develop more optimally in the womb and prevent the fetus from being born prematurely or born with low weight.
In addition, protein is also needed in the development of breast and uterine tissue, as well as increasing blood flow during pregnancy.
4. Overcoming morning sickness
Corn contains a lot of B-complex vitamins and folate which are needed during pregnancy. The intake of nutrients in this corn can prevent and relieve symptoms morning sickness which is often experienced by pregnant women.
5. Prevent anemia and babies born with defects
Corn contains vitamin B9 (folate) and iron which plays a role in the production of red blood cells, so it is good for supporting fetal development and preventing anemia in pregnant women.
In addition, the folate content in corn can also prevent babies from being born with defects, such as neural tube defects, cleft lip, to heart defects. Given the benefits of folate, it is not wrong if corn is often recommended as a healthy food choice for young pregnant women.
6. Overcoming leg cramps during pregnancy
If you often experience leg cramps during pregnancy, it is likely that the pregnant woman's body lacks potassium intake.
Corn contains potassium which plays an important role in controlling muscle contractions, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, transmitting nerve signals, and keeping blood pressure stable.
7. Maintain eye health
Corn contains antioxidants that are important for maintaining eye health for pregnant women and fetuses, namely lutein and zeaxanthin. The amount of antioxidants in corn is also higher than other grains.
Apart from lutein, corn also contains ferulic acid. These antioxidants are good for protecting liver and nerve function and reducing inflammation. Ferulic acid is also believed to control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of depression in pregnant women.
However, the benefits of ferulic acid in pregnant women and fetuses so far still need to be studied further.
The benefits of corn for pregnant women can not only be obtained by eating whole corn. As an alternative, corn-based foods, such as cornstarch and corn oil fortified with additional nutrients, can be a good choice for consumption during pregnancy.
Although the benefits of corn for pregnant women are quite a lot, pregnant women still have to balance their nutritional intake with other foods so that nutrition during pregnancy is fulfilled. In addition, check the content regularly to the obstetrician so that the health of the mother and fetus is maintained.