Loving Impressive Health Benefits of corn (Makka or Maize)

 Loving Impressive Health Benefits of corn (Makka or Maize)

Makka or Maize (Zea Mays) is believed to be originated in Central America. It has been a staple food since ancient era and mythological civilizations of Incan, Aztec and Mayan were believed to consume Maize. Presently, Makka is consumed in several forms such as pop corns, Makka Roti (Indian Bread), Tortillas, Cornmeals, Bhutta and boiled corn. Available mostly in yellow, Makka is also available in white, black, blue, pink and red colors. Maize is a good source of Phytonutrients, Fiber, Vitamins and Manganese. Makka or Corn is locally known as Mokka jonna pindi in telugu; Cholam in Tamil; Makai chi Peet in Marathi and Jolade Hittu in Kannad.  

 

Health Benefits Of Corn:

In addition to its delicious sweet taste, corn is high in fiber, low in fat and a great source of essential nutrients offering an array of health benefits given below.

1. Good For Digestion:

Corn is high in dietary fiber which comprises of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps in blocking cholesterol absorption by turning into a gel-like consistency whereas insoluble fiber prevents constipation and intestinal problems by promoting soft and bulky stool that can move easily through the intestines, reducing the chances of Irritable Bowel Syndrome and diarrhea. Thus, it helps prevent digestive problems like constipation and hemorrhoids as well as colon cancer. Though corn contains both types of fiber, it has a higher content of insoluble fiber.

2. Prevents Anemia:

Anemia is caused due to the deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic acid. Corn contains a significant amount of these as well as iron, which is one of the essential minerals required to form new red blood cells. The deficiency of iron can also cause anemia.

3. Prevents Diabetes And Hypertension:

Organic fruits and vegetables like corn have proven to be effective in reducing the signs of diabetes. The regular consumption of corn kernels assists in the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and protects against hypertension due to the presence of phenolic phytochemicals in whole corn. The phytochemicals regulate the absorption and release of insulin in the body, thus reducing the chances of spikes and drops for diabetic patients and enabling them to maintain a normal lifestyle. Besides, corn is a good source of pantothenic acid. This B vitamin helps in carbohydrate, protein and lipid metabolism. Hence, it prevents stress by supporting the functioning of the adrenal glands.

4. Stronger Connective Tissue:

Connective tissue is comprised of bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilage. Corn contains the trace mineral manganese that strengthens the connective tissue. In addition to these, manganese keeps the blood sugar levels stable and breaks down carbs and fat to provide energy. A cup of corn provides about 12 percent of the daily recommended value of manganese. Corn also contains a large proportion of minerals like magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus that are needed for healthy bones. These nutrients prevent your bones from cracking as you grow older.

5. Makka or Corn for Blood Sugar Control:

Makka or Corn contains fibre, b-complex vitamins and protein which help in stabilizing blood sugar level. Fiber and protein present in corn helps in pacing food passage through the digestive tract and prevents very quick/ very fast digestion of food. Thus too quick/ slow absorption of sugar into bloodstream from digestive tract is prevented. This avoids extreme fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that consumption of 1 to 2 cupfuls of corn is linked to control of blood sugar levels in conditions of type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

6. Makka or Corn consumption during Pregnancy:

Makka consumption is useful for pregnant women as it is a good source folic acid. It is known that deficiency of folic acid may lead to neural tube defects and underweight baby.

7. Makka or Corn for Eyes/ Skin: 

Beta Carotene present in yellow corn/ Makka is good for keeping good eyesight and skin health.

8. Makka/Corn Oil for Cholesterol:

 Studies have shown that corn oil is anti-atherogenic and helps in lowering risk of heart related diseases. Corn oil helps in reducing cholesterol absorption by body and hence lowers plasma LDL cholesterol.

 9. Makka and HIV Research:

  In a preliminary study on anti-HIV properties of corn, it was found that a lectin GNAmaize present in Corn/Makka has some anti-HIV properties. Lectins are special proteins, found in many food items, which can bind to carbohydrates and carbohydrates receptors on membranes of cell. Studies have shown that binding of lectins onto sugar helps in inhibiting activity of HIV virus and certain other microorganisms. Link between consumption of Makka and HIV needs to be established with further research.

For enjoying its taste, it is recommended that fresh Corn be consumed on the day of purchase. Corn with green husk should be chosen for its freshness. Corn which is not exposed to good amount of heat is safer as exposure to heat may increase chances of microbial growth. 

10. Corn/Makka  Health Risks:

Since more than 70 percent of all corn available in markets worldwide are genetically modified, its health impact may be an area of concern. It is advisable to buy certified organic corn to avoid any adverse reaction due to genetic modification of corn.

11. Beneficial During Pregnancy:

Being a rich source of folic acid, corn is particularly beneficial for pregnant women. The deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women can cause the birth of underweight infants and also cause neural tube defects at birth. Thus, pregnant women should include corn in their diet as it benefits the health of both the child and the expecting mother. However, in case of high blood pressure or swollen hands or feet, it is advisable to consult the doctor first.