Corn decreases the risk of alzheimer's
The upper protective layer of corn is known as corn ‘ears’ which protects the each row of kernels. Further protection to these kernels is given by silk like threads present in between the ‘ears’ and kernel called ‘corn silk’. Corn is now available throughout the year; however the ones available in its actual season that is during the summer months are not only tasty but also less expensive. Corn is often associated with the color yellow, but it is available in a variety of different colors like white, red, purple, pink, blue and black.
Health benefits of cornCorn has become an essential part of various recipes and hot, fresh, roasted corn brings water to many peoples mouth.
Besides its delicious taste, corn is also a good source of many nutrients like thiamin, folate, pantothenic acid, vitamin C, manganese, phosphorus and dietary fiber.
- Folate from corm helps to keep the levels of homocysteine in check. Homocysteine an amino acid, when elevated can directly cause blood vessel damage and can be an independent risk factor for various disease like atherosclerosis, heart attack, ischemic heart disease, peripheral vascular disease and stroke. A cup of corn gives 19% of the daily value for folate.
- Beta-cryptoxanthin is an orange carotenoid present in corn, oranges, peaches, papayas, pumpkin and tangerines. This carotenoid is directly associated with lowering the risk of getting lung cancer and thus maintains a good lung health.
- Thiamin from corn forms an integral part in many enzymatic reactions for energy production and is also critical nutrient for cognitive function. Acetylcholine is an essential neurotransmitter needed for memory and preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Thiamin is required for the synthesis of this neurotransmitter. Thiamin along with pantothenic acid is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. In stress situations, pantothenic acid is especially vulnerable to support adrenal gland function. A cup of corn provides 24% daily value for thiamin and 14.4% daily value for pantothenic acid.
- Although the antioxidant power from an array of phytochemicals present in corn are in the bound form, they may have health promoting effects equal to or even in higher amount than fruits and vegetables. A single grain or fruit or vegetable does not have all the essential nutrients required for good health, to meet the requirements of all the nutrients it is necessary to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains in a day’s diet.
Corn is included in those foods that can cause allergic reactions, even though allergic reaction can occur to any foods, it is important to recognize the allergen and eliminate it completely.
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