Corn originated in South America, which was later spread around the world by Spanish explorers. Genetically, sweet corn differs from a field mutation in the sugar locus. The corn crop has achieved significant success as one of the most profitable crops in tropical and subtropical countries.
Consider the impact of corn on human health:
- Sweet corn is quite rich in calories compared to other vegetables and contains 86 calories per 100 g. However, fresh sweet corn is less caloric than field corn and many other grains such as wheat, rice and so on.
- Sweet corn does not contain gluten, and therefore it can be safely consumed by celiac patients.
- Sweet corn has a high nutritional value due to dietary fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals in moderation. It is one of the finest sources of dietary fiber. Together with the slow digestion of complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber helps regulate the gradual rise in blood sugar levels. However, corn, along with rice, potatoes, etc., has a high glycemic index, which limits diabetics from consuming it.
- Yellow corn contains significantly more pigment antioxidants such as B-carotene, lutein, xanthine and cryptoxanthine pigments along with vitamin A.
- Corn is a good source of ferulic acid. Several scientific studies have shown that ferulic acid plays an important role in the prevention of cancer, aging and inflammation in the human body.
- Contains some B-complex vitamins such as thiamine, niacin, pantothenic acid, folate, riboflavin and pyridoxine.
- In conclusion, corn is rich in minerals such as zinc, magnesium, copper, iron, and manganese.