Nothing says summer like a cob of sweet corn! Not only is it tasty, but it is abundant this time of year. Many people look forward to the crisp ears and delightful flavor. Corn has been around for centuries and has been a staple in the diet of many cultures. Sadly, not all corn is the same as it once used to be. It’s not surprising there’s been controversy over whether corn is actually good for you. A lot of people believe most corn is genetically modified. “According to the USDA, only a small percentage of sweet corn grown in the U.S. is genetically modified. Unfortunately, most GMO corn that is genetically modified is used in processed foods like cereal, chips, high fructose corn syrup, popcorn and more.”¹  Unprocessed, non GMO organic corn however, does have some health benefits. Some nutrients found in corn include vitamin C, thiamin, potassium, folate, magnesium, manganese and zinc. It also contains protein, iron and B vitamins. Corn has other health benefits, as well. 

Health Benefits Of Sweet Corn

High In Fiber

Like zucchinis, corn is a good source of fiber, so it helps aid in digestion. Corn contains insoluble fiber that helps flush your body of waste and toxins and promotes good digestion. Corn also helps feed the good bacteria in your gut, which helps foster a healthy microbiome and overall well-being. Additionally, corn helps supply  a steady stream of energy to your body.

Good For The Eyes And Skin 

Corn not only tastes great, but is rich in antioxidants that help protect the body. In particular, corn contains zeaxanthin and lutein, which are good for your eyes and skin. It also has carotenoid antioxidants that help support your immune system and help prevent free radical damage that can harm the body and cause eye damage.

May Help Promote Weight Loss

Corn is low a calorie food, yet contains nutrients that are beneficial to your body. Corn is high in fiber, so it helps you feel full longer than some other types of food. One ear of corn contains approximately 100 calories, or so and about 3 g or fiber. Corn also contains resistant starch that takes longer to digest, so you’ll be less likely to feel hungry for a snack or go over board at your meal.²

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Source:

¹MHerr, Laurie S. “Is Corn Healthy or Not? 5 Myths About Sweet Corn Busted.” EatingWell, EatingWell, 10 July 2019, www.eatingwell.com/article/111076/is-corn-healthy-or-not-5-myths-about-sweet-corn-busted/.

²Levy, Jillian. “Is Corn Good for You?” Dr. Axe, 3 June 2019, draxe.com/nutrition/vegetables/nutritional-value-of-corn/.

P. S. If you are interested in reading more about healthful eating and living a healthy lifestyle, you might want to check out my book, Wholey Cow A Simple Guide To Eating And Living. Click here to learn more or purchase.