Corn Benefits and Nutrition: Is it Healthy to Eat Bhutta? 5 Myths Busted
We take a look at the many reasons to eat corn, from the number of nutrients you will gain by noshing on kernels to the ultra-filling fibre that is unique to the fresh-tasting vegetable. Read on for its mind-boggling benefits
There is nothing like a crisp cob of sweet corn, especially during the rains. But even though there is no contesting about the deliciousness of corn, there seem to be a few myths that persist about the healthfulness of this vegetable. If you love munching these little golden kernels then we give you more reasons to add them to your diet. Corn may be high in sugar (sucrose), but there are several other properties of this grain that must not be overlooked. We bust the biggest myths about corn.
Myth 1: Corn Has No Health Benefits
Being high in carb, corn got a bad rapport along with the beloved potato. But do not ditch corn yet. Corn increases the blood flow, lowers cholesterol absorption and regulates insulin, making it an excellent choice for diabetics and cholesterol patients. Throw in a healthy amount of vitamins, plus iron, protein and potassium, and you have got one sweet package.
Myth 2: Your Body Cannot Digest Corn
While it is true that corn has high amounts of insoluble fibre, it is not bad for your stomach. The insoluble fibre in corn feeds good bacteria in your gut, which aids in digestion and helps in the smooth running of the bowel movement. Also, eat these 10 healthiest food on the planet to stay fit forever.
Myth 3: Corn Has No Nutrients
Corn is rich in nutrients with generous amounts of vitamins B and C as well as magnesium and potassium. It is also a good source of nutrients like zeaxanthin and lutein which is good for your eye health. Plus, corn also had the highest phenolic content, including an extraordinary quantity of ferulic acid, which helps prevent colon, breast and prostate cancers.
Myth 4: Corn Is High In Sugar
You don’t steer clear of bananas because they are high in sugar, do you? A cob of corn has around 6g to 8g of sugar and a banana contains around 15g. Even beetroot has more amount of sugar per serving than corn. Just ditch the stuff with chemical-sounding names like corn syrup and stick to the real thing. Dietitian recommends these 15 affordable foods that are packed with vital nutrients.
Myth 5: Eating Corn Will Make You Gain Weight
A medium size ear of corn clocks in at about 77 calories. But don’t let the carbs scare you. Like like any other source of complex carbs, it is your primary source of fuel. Bonus? Corn is a good source of protein and fibre which can keep you full and satiated. Then there's its resistant starch, a slow-to-digest type of carb that's been shown to help with weight control.
Add corn to stir-fry or have as a chaat, blend into soups or make delicious corn and palak kebabs for the youngsters this season. Happy eating!
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 11, 2019 08:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).