Corn: cellular protection and cardiovascular health

Corn: cellular protection and cardiovascular health
Extract from the article: Corn, one of the most popular cereals, is not only delicious, but also full of nutrients essential for maintaining good health. Today, it is an essential food in many cultures. Here are some of the benefits of corn for optimum health.

Corn, one of the most popular cereals, is not only delicious, but also full of nutrients essential for maintaining good health. Today, it is an essential food in many cultures. Here are some of the benefits of corn for optimum health.

Corn, as a staple food in many cultures, offers a variety of health benefits due to its varied nutritional composition.

Source of essential nutrients

Corn is an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals. According to the «Global vitamin A deficiency» study published in «Food and Nutrition Bulletin», it is particularly rich in vitamin B1 (thiamine), which plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, and vitamin B9 (folate), important for cellular health. Corn also contains minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus and iron, which are essential for healthy body function.

Rich in fiber

Eating corn is good for the digestive system, thanks to its high fiber content. According to the study «Position of the American Dietetic Association: Health implications of dietary fiber», published in the «Journal of the American Dietetic Association», this fiber promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, dietary corn fiber helps maintain a feeling of satiety, which can be helpful for weight management.

Antioxidants for cellular protection

Corn is rich in antioxidants, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health, reveals the study « Lutein and zeaxanthin in corn and other vegetables» published in «Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science». These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Good cardio-cerebral health

As a whole grain, corn is one of the foods that protect your health.Numerous studies have established a link between consumption of this type of food and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. This is shown by the study «Magnesium intake and risk of cardiovascular disease: a meta-analysis of prospective studies» published in the «American Journal of Clinical Nutrition».  Thanks to its choline content, corn makes a positive contribution to brain function. According to «Effect of maize oil and other vegetable oils on serum cholesterol levels» published in the «Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry», choline is a nutrient required for the synthesis of acetylcholine. It is a neurotransmitter with functions in memory and muscle control. Corn also contains large quantities of folic acid. This acid is involved in central nervous system function, nerve cell metabolism and myelin synthesis. Myelin is a substance that protects nerve cells (neurons), increasing the speed of impulse transmission.

Toxin elimination

Corn, a cereal with many virtues, also contains large quantities of potassium, making it a diuretic food of choice. By increasing urine output, corn helps eliminate toxins from the body. Corn is particularly recommended for gout, bladder stones, cystitis, bladder inflammation and renal colic.

An article entitled «4 health benefits of corn», published in the magazine «Health» on January 23, 2023, points out that corn contains polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acids, which can contribute to cardiovascular health by reducing levels of unhealthy fats.

Gluten-free alternativeFor people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, corn is an ideal gluten-free alternative. It can be eaten in a variety of forms, such as corn flour, polenta or roasted corn on the cob.

Energy and vitality

Rich in complex carbohydrates, corn provides a sustainable source of energy. (2007). According to «The importance of dietary carbohydrate and fat in the management of metabolic syndrome» published in the «International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition», complex carbohydrates are digested more slowly, enabling stable energy levels to be maintained throughout the day. It's an excellent food for active people or those looking to boost their energy intake in a healthy way.

Whether boiled, grilled, or processed into flour, consuming corn regularly can bring many health benefits, while adding diversity to the diet.

William O.

Author
santé éducation
Editor
Abel OZIH

Corn, one of the most popular cereals, is not only delicious, but also full of nutrients essential for maintaining good health. Today, it is an essential food in many cultures. Here are some of the benefits of corn for optimum health.

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