Sweet corn is a type of maize that contains more sugar than other maize varieties. Sweet corn is also known as Indian corn, sugar corn, pole corn or simply as corn. The process of sweet corn harvesting is different from that of other corn crops. Unlike other corns, sweet corn is harvested when the crop is in the immature or in the milk stage. Sweet corn is a popular vegetable, usually used in making soups and salads. It has a low shelf life. To extend the shelf life of the vegetable, sweet corns are frozen or canned.
Nutrients in sweet corn
Sweet corn is a nutritious vegetable. Nearly 75 percent of the corn comprises of water. Sweet corn is packed with protein, dietary fiber, carbohydrates, vitamin A, thiamine, niacin, folate, vitamin C, iron, magnesium and potassium.
The nutrients and the antioxidant rich phytochemicals found in sweet corn could inhibit growth of cancer cells. Studies have shown that other than vitamin C, other nutrients present in fresh sweet corn remain intact even after cooking. Cooked sweet corn is a rich source of ferulic acid. Ferulic acid is a powerful antioxidant compound, which could fight development of malignant cells in the body.
This antioxidant also obstructs activities of the free radicals, which are responsible for changing the genetic structure of normal cells, leading to development of cancer cells. Vitamin A present in sweet corn could prevent development of lung cancer. Studies have shown that smokers who consume abundant vitamin A have lesser risk of developing lung cancer.
Good for the heart
Sweet corn is a good source of folate. Folate could reduce the homocysteine level in the body. High level of homocysteine is responsible for heart diseases. Studies have shown that adequate folate consumption could reduce the risk of cardiovascular ailments.
Good for the eyes
Sweet corn contains beta carotene, which helps to preserve our vision. Folate found is sweet corn is capable of preventing age related macular degeneration, which is a primary cause of vision loss in the elderly.
Good for the brain
Sweet corn is a good source of thiamine. This B vitamin prevents cognitive decline. Intake of sweet corn could prevent age related memory loss.