12/08/2022
Corn possesses a simple stem of nodes and internodes. A pair of large leaves extend off of each internode and the leaves total 8–21 per plant. The leaves are linear or lanceolate with an obvious midrib and can grow from 30–100 cm (11.8–39.4 in) in length. The male and female inflorescences are positioned separately on the plant. The male inflorescence is known as the 'tassel' while the female inflorescence is the 'ear'. The ear of the maize is a modified spike and there may be 1–3 per plant.
The maize grains, or 'kernels', are encased in husks and total 30–1000 per ear. The kernels can be white, yellow, red, purple, or black. Maize is an annual plant, surviving for only one growing season and can reach 2–3 m (7–10 ft) in height.
Health Benefit
1- Supports Digestion:
The fiber content in Corn alleviates digestive problems such as constipation and hemorrhoids, as well as lowering the risk of colon cancer due to Corn being a whole-grain.
2- Promotes Growth:
Corn is rich in vitamin B constituents, especially thiamin and niacin. Thiamin is essential for maintaining nerve health and cognitive function. Niacin deficiency leads to pellagra; a disease characterized by diarrhea, dementia, and dermatitis that is commonly observed in malnourished individuals. It is also a good source of pantothenic acid, which is an essential vitamin for carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism in the body.
3- Weight Gain:
Corn, especially the yellow variety, is a rich source of calories and is a staple in many places. It is often turned to for quick weight gain and combined with the ease and flexibility of the growing conditions, the high-calorie content makes it vital for the survival of dozens of agricultural nations.
4- Sources of Minerals:
Corn contains abundant minerals that positively benefit the body in a number of ways. Phosphorus, along with magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, and copper are some of the essential nutrients that are found in all varieties of Corn. It also contains trace minerals such as selenium, which are difficult to find in most normal diets. Phosphorus is essential for regulating normal growth, bone health, and optimal kidney functioning. Magnesium is necessary for maintaining a normal heart rate and for increasing bone mineral density.
5- Heart Health:
Corn oil has been shown to have an anti-atherogenic effect on cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Corn oil, in particular, is the best way to improve heart health and this is derived from the fact that Corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging LDL or bad cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, lower blood pressure, and minimize the risk of heart attack and stroke.
6- Prevents Anaemia:
Corn helps prevent anaemia caused by a deficiency of vitamins and minerals. It also contains iron, which is one of the essential minerals needed to form new red blood cells; a deficiency of iron is one of the main causes of anaemia as well. Vitamin A and beta carotene can increase the absorption of iron.
7- Lowers Cholesterol Levels:
Consumption of Cornhusk oil lowers plasma LDL or bad cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption in the body. Reduction in LDL cholesterol does not mean a reduction in HDL or good cholesterol, which can have beneficial effects on the body. They include the reduction of heart diseases, prevention of atherosclerosis, and general scavenging of free radicals throughout the body.
8- Eye and Skin Care:
Yellow Corn is a rich source of beta-carotene, which forms vitamin A in the body and is essential for the maintenance of good vision and skin. Beta-carotene is a great source of vitamin A because it is converted into the body according to the amount required. Vitamin A can be toxic if too much is consumed, so deriving it through beta-carotene transformation is ideal. It will also benefit the health of skin and mucous membranes, as well as boost the immune system.
9- Manages Diabetes:
Consumption of whole grains is related to a decreased risk in the development of type 2 diabetes. Consumption of its kernels assists in the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and is effective against hypertension due to the presence of phenolic phytochemicals in whole Corn. Phytochemicals can regulate the absorption and release of insulin in the body, which can reduce the chance of spikes and drops for diabetic patients and help them maintain a healthy lifestyle.
