Corn, also known as maize, is a delicious and beloved grain known in many cultures for centuries. Bursting with flavor, texture, and nutritional goodness, corn has a lot of health benefits and can be made in many dishes. In this comprehensive round-up article, we will delve into the nutrient information, explore the top benefits of corn, and highlight some of the most popular dishes that feature this delightful ingredient.
Table of contents
1. Nutrient Information and Facts
a. Carbohydrates
Corn is a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provides sustained energy and helps in digestion.
These complex carbohydrates provide a steady release of energy and promote satiety.
A 100-gram serving of boiled yellow corn contains approximately 21 grams of carbohydrates.
b. Fiber
Corn has good dietary fiber, essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Fiber adds bulk to the diet, aiding regular bowel movements and preventing constipation.
It also promotes feelings of fullness, helping to control appetite and manage weight.
A 100-gram serving of boiled yellow corn provides around 2.4 grams of fiber.
c. Protein
Corn doesn’t have much protein as other grains but still contributes to your daily protein intake.
Protein is vital for building and repairing tissues, supporting immune function, and producing enzymes and hormones.
A 100-gram serving of boiled yellow corn contains approximately 3.4 grams of protein.
d. Vitamins
i. Corn is rich in sources of Vitamins like thiamine, niacin, and folate.
ii. Vitamin C supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
iii. Thiamine plays a crucial role in converting food into energy and supporting nerve function.
iv. Niacin helps in metabolizing nutrients and maintaining healthy skin, while folate helps with cell growth and development.
v. Vitamin A benefits vision, immune function, and maintaining healthy skin and mucous membranes.
e. Minerals
Corn contains minerals like potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc that help in maintaining good health.
Potassium helps in regulating blood pressure and supports good heart and muscle function.
Magnesium contributes to bone health, energy production, and nerve function.
Phosphorus helps form bone and teeth, as well as metabolize energy.
Iron is crucial for transporting oxygen in the blood and preventing anemia.
Zinc helps in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
Adding corn to your diet allows you to benefit from its nutrient-rich profile. Whether you enjoy it in the form of fresh corn on the cob, boiled kernels, or incorporated into various dishes, corn provides a range of essential nutrients that support your health.
2. Top Benefits of Corn
Corn has many health benefits, but yet it’s very delicious. Having Corn in your diet provides nutrients and helps you maintain a balanced and nutritious lifestyle. Let’s explore the top benefits of corn in more detail:
i. Promotes Heart Health
Corn contains dietary fiber and helps to lower cholesterol levels and the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The fiber in corn helps eliminate excess cholesterol and prevent building up in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Corn has folate and vitamin B, which helps lower homocysteine levels and heart disease.
ii. Supports Digestive Health
The high fiber content in corn promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation.
Dietary fiber adds bulk to the stool, making it easy to pass through the digestive tract and preventing gastrointestinal issues.
Consuming corn regularly can help maintain regular bowel movements and support a healthy digestive system.
iii. Enhances Eye Health
Corn has carotenoids, including lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for the eye.
These antioxidants help filter harmful blue light and protect the eyes from getting damaged by free radicals.
If you add corn to your regular diet, you will never face the problem of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and maintain good vision.
iv. Provides Energy and Satiety
Corn is a rich source of carbohydrates, the primary fuel source for the body.
The complex carbohydrates in corn provide a sustained release of energy, keeping you full for a long time and maintaining steady blood sugar levels.
Including corn in your meals can boost your energy to stay active and productive throughout the day.
v. Supports Weight Management
The fiber content in corn aids in weight management by promoting feelings of fullness and reducing overall calorie intake.
Corn helps control hunger and prevents overeating by adding bulk to the diet.
Corn is low in calories and fat but nutritious, which makes it a perfect option for those looking for weight loss.
vi. Boosts Immune System
Corn has various vitamins and minerals that maintain a healthy immune system.
Vitamin C in corn strengthens the immune system and protects against infections and diseases.
Corn is rich in immune-boosting nutrients, such as vitamins A, E, and zinc, which help in improvising the body’s mechanisms.
vii. Promotes Skin Health
The antioxidants present in corn, including vitamin C and lycopene, contribute to healthier and more youthful-looking skin.
These antioxidants help fight the radicals that damage your skin and lead to premature aging.
Corn can help maintain the skin’s elasticity and collagen production and even improve skin.
viii. Supports Bone Health
Corn contains several minerals essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones, including phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese.
These minerals are necessary for bone formation, density, and strength.
You can get rid of bone-related problems such as osteoporosis and maintain healthy bones by adding corn to your daily diet.
ix. Provides Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
There are some compounds in corn that are beneficial for anti-inflammatory such as ferulic acid and anthocyanins.
They help in reducing the inflammation associated with various chronic diseases, like arthritis and heart disease.
Including corn in an anti-inflammatory diet can help alleviate symptoms and support overall well-being.
x. Supports Brain Health
Corn has Thiamine and Niacin, of Vitamin B, which play a vital role in brain health and cognitive function.
These vitamins play a role in producing neurotransmitters essential for maintaining proper brain function and mental clarity.
Consuming corn regularly can support memory, focus, and overall brain health.
Incorporating corn into your meals adds flavor and nutrients and offers various health benefits. So, enjoy the deliciousness of corn with health advantages.
3. Most Popular Dishes with Corn
Corn’s versatility shines through in the countless dishes it can be used in. So here are some most popular and delicious culinary creations featuring corn:
i. Classic Corn on the Cob
Grilled, boiled, or steamed, corn on the cob is a beloved summer treat enjoyed with various seasonings and toppings.
ii. Creamy Corn Chowder
A comforting soup made with sweet corn kernels, potatoes, onions, and herbs and served with a touch of cream for richness.
iii. Cornbread
A staple in Southern cuisine, cornbread is a moist and crumbly bread made with cornmeal, perfect as a side dish or for sopping up flavorsome sauces.
iv. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Grilled corn slathered in a flavorful combination of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cheese, creating a mouthwatering snack bursting with zesty flavors.
v. Corn Salsa
This corn salsa requires corn kernels, diced tomatoes, onions, peppers, and cilantro, perfect for brunch. You can dip tortilla chips or top-grilled meats in this refreshing and colorful corn salsa and enjoy.
vi. Corn Fritters
These corn fritters are crispy and golden, made with a batter of corn kernels, flour, eggs, and spices, and served as a delightful appetizer or snack.
vii. Corn Pudding
This Corn Pudding is a delightful recipe perfect to make as a side dish or dessert. You just have to combine sweet corn, milk, eggs, and sugar, baked to a creamy and luscious perfection.
viii. Corn Salad
A vibrant salad featuring fresh corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onions, and herbs tossed with a zesty dressing for a refreshing summer dish.
ix. Corn Pancakes
These Corn Pancakes are fluffy and golden, a perfect recipe for breakfast. These pancakes are made with cornflour, eggs, and butter and served with maple syrup.
Corn Risotto: A creamy and comforting risotto made with Arborio rice, chicken or vegetable broth, and sweet corn kernels, often garnished with fresh herbs and grated.
Parmesan cheese.
Here is the nutrition data for 100 grams of boiled yellow corn
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 96 |
| Carbohydrates | 21 grams |
| Protein | 3.4 grams |
| Fat | 1.5 grams |
| Fiber | 2.4 grams |
| Vitamin C | 6.8 mg |
| Thiamine (Vitamin B1) | 0.2 mg |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 1.7 mg |
| Folate (Vitamin B9) | 42 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 187 IU |
| Vitamin K | 0.3 mcg |
| Potassium | 270 mg |
| Magnesium | 37 mg |
| Phosphorus | 89 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Zinc | 0.5 mg |
Corn is undoubtedly a versatile and nutritious grain that offers many health benefits. So, embrace the versatility of corn and indulge in its flavorsome offerings while reaping its remarkable health benefits.