Corn Guide: Nutrition, Benefits, Side Effects, More (2024)

FAQs

Does corn have any benefits to the human body? ›

Corn has plenty of fiber, both soluble and insoluble. The soluble fiber in corn breaks down and forms a gel in the intestines and can play a role in controlling cholesterol. Soluble corn fiber is used in the manufacture of processed foods. The covering of each delicious kernel of corn is insoluble.

Corn is high in insoluble fiber, which bulks up stool (poop) and prevents constipation. If you've ever noticed what looks like whole kernels of corn in your poop (or your kid's diaper) it's not because there's a problem with your digestive system.

The body cannot digest corn

Corn is high in cellulose, which is an insoluble fiber that the body cannot digest. However, the body breaks down the other components of corn. Chewing corn for longer can also help the digestive system break down cellulose walls to access more of the nutrients.

Benefits of eating corn

One of the main nutritional benefits of sweetcorn is its high fibre content. And as we know, dietary fibre is important for our health: it aids digestion, it can decrease the risk of heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes and bowel cancer. On top of that, fibre helps you stay fuller for longer.

By identifying and avoiding the top inflammatory foods such as refined sugar, vegetable oil, and processed corn, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, blueberries, dark leafy greens, and avocado, we can actively combat inflammation and promote overall well-being.

Corn is rich in fiber and plant compounds that may aid digestive and eye health. Yet, it's high in starch, can spike blood sugar and may prevent weight loss when consumed in excess. The safety of genetically modified corn may also be a concern. Still, in moderation, corn can be part of a healthy diet.

High intake can cause digestive upset, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea, in some people. Corn contains phytic acid, which may reduce mineral absorption. Mycotoxin contamination may also be a concern in developing countries.

Corn is a starchy vegetable, like potatoes and peas. That means it has sugar and carbohydrates that can raise your blood sugar levels. It can still be a healthy part of your diet if you don't overdo it. If you have diabetes, you don't necessarily need to avoid corn, but watch your portion sizes.

Pellagra is most common among poor and food-limited populations. The disease is more common in parts of the world (such as certain parts of Africa) where people have a lot of untreated corn in their diet. Corn is a poor source of tryptophan, and niacin in corn is tightly bound to other components of the grain.

What does corn do to your heart? ›

Corn is an important part of a heart-healthy diet because it's low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Corn oil in particular is high in polyunsaturated fat, which contributes to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

The inside of each kernel is almost pure starch and is digested very readily. But it is surrounded by a cellulose husk and humans have no way to break down cellulose molecules.

Yes, corn will raise your blood sugar because it contains carbohydrates. However, it has a low glycemic index and is a good source of fiber. Pairing it with foods rich in fiber, protein, and fat can help reduce the rate at which your blood sugars rise and promote blood sugar management.

Eat some corn and check your stools to see how long it takes from the time you ate the corn until you pass the corn in your stool. You should be able to see the corn in your stool between 24 and 48 hours later if your bowels are functioning well.

Corn is made up of cellulose and the human body does not have the right enzymes to break it down.

And the high fibre content can help you shed belly fat by preventing fat accumulation and lowering your cholesterol levels. Often, people avoid eating corn because of the confusion over calories and losing weight. But the truth is, a cup of corn is relatively low in calories.

Corn can contribute to healthy hair growth and maintenance. It contains important vitamins and minerals such as biotin, folate, vitamin C and iron that are essential for hair health. Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is particularly beneficial for promoting hair growth and strength.

Skipping meals or not eating a well-balanced diet can lead to imbalances in our blood sugar levels, which can trigger cravings for sugary or starchy foods, like corn. Eating regular, balanced meals can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce cravings.

Myth No.

Fact: Yes, corn is sweet for a vegetable—but there are only 5 g of natural sugar in a medium-sized ear of corn, per the USDA. An ear of sweet corn has less than a third of the sugar in a banana and only about one-fifth the sugar of a medium apple. Cup for cup, even beets have more grams of sugar than corn.