Sweet Corn is Good For Weight Loss -The most detailed explanation

Did you know sweet corn is good for weight loss? Read the article below to understand the main ingredients of sweet corn, the difference between sweet corn and field corn, and sweet corn benefits.

Content

1. Introduction to Sweet Corn

1.1 What is sweet corn

Sweet corn is also called sugar corn and pole corn which comes in three colors: yellow, white, and bicolored. It is a variety of maize grown for human consumption with high sugar content. Sweet corn is the result of a naturally occurring recessive mutation in the genes that control the conversion of sugar to starch inside the endosperm of the corn kernel.

Sweet corn occurred as a spontaneous mutation in field corn and was grown by several Native American tribes. The Iroquois gave the first recorded sweet corn to European settlers in 1779. It soon became a popular food in the southern and central regions of the United States.

Corn is one of the most versatile food products grown and consumed in the United States. In addition to fresh sweet corn for human consumption, it can be further processed into other food products, sweeteners, starches, oils, alcohol, and ethanol-based fuel.

Sweet corn contains high sugar content

1.2 What’s the difference between sweet corn and field corn

Unlike field corn varieties grown for animal fodder which are harvested when the kernels are dry and mature, sweet corn is picked when immature and prepared and eaten as a vegetable rather than a grain.

As soon as corn is harvested, the sugar begins converting to starch, reducing the sweetness. Therefore, sweet corn should be refrigerated or stored within two to six hours of harvest to ensure the best quality and retain its sweetness. Sweet corn remains sweet up to 14 days after harvest if kept refrigerated. So it makes these varieties ideal for sale at distant markets.

Field corn is taller and has more leaves than sweet corn. On the other hand, sweet corn appears to be short and spindlier.

What’s the difference between sweet corn and field corn

1.3 Ingredients

While sweet corn typically invokes images of summer barbeques, it also has many health benefits. Sweet corn is an excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, with one ear of corn containing over 10% of the Daily Value (DV) of Vitamin C and above 6% DV of Vitamin A. A large amount of soluble fiber helps decrease cholesterol. Research has shown that cooking corn increases levels of beneficial antioxidants and phytochemicals.

Nutritional value (major ingredients) per 100g (3.5 oz) sweet corn, yellow, raw (seeds only):

– Energy: 360 kJ (86 kcal)

– Carbohydrates: 19.02 g

+ Sugars: 3.22 g

+ Dietary fiber: 2.7 g

– Fat: 1.18 g

– Protein: 3.2 g

1.4 Sweet Corn Benefits

In most of Latin America, sweet corn is traditionally eaten with beans. Although both corn and beans contain all nine essential amino acids, it’s better to eat both. Because eating a variety of foods in a day that includes whole grains and beans ensures the right balance of essential amino acids. Cooking sweet corn increases levels of ferulic acid, which has anti-cancer properties.

+ Delays Aging Process: If you want to remain young and maintain youthful looks, you should consume sweet corn. It is a powerhouse of antioxidants helpful in preventing the aging process.

+ High-fiber: High in dietary fiber, sweet corn keeps one satiated and it is good for weight loss. It also reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and bowel cancer.

+ Improves heart health: The fiber content of sweet corn decreases blood pressure and cholesterol. It plays a vital role in preventing heart disease and encourages a healthy heart.

+ A study shows that corn consumption may keep diverticulitis at bay. It is a digestive condition that impacts long-term health. Moderate consumption of corn is beneficial for gut health.

+ Anemia: Corn contains a lot of vitamin B12, iron, and folic acid. The deficiency of these nutrients can cause anemia. So, eating sweet corn can prevent anemia.

2. Sweet corn is good for weight loss

+ Thanks to its high fiber properties, corn is awesome grain for weight loss. Fiber helps in digestion which facilitates weight loss. Corn is rich in antioxidants which improve metabolism.

+ Sweet corn contains an Anthocyanin component. So it is beneficial for maintaining insulin and glucose levels. When fasting insulin levels drop, the body will burn fat for energy, not store fat.

+ Many athletes and fitness enthusiasts include corn in their daily diet as it helps their energy levels in check. Corn is rich in carbohydrates which get digested slowly and provides energy throughout the day.

Pairing beans with corn can help boost the slimming effect. They help the body isn’t able to absorb as many of its calories or glucose, a nutrient that’s stored as fat if it’s not burned off.