Who among us does not enjoy boiling sweet corn and having it as a snack in the evening? In fact, it is not only known for its delicious taste but also for its numerous health benefits. The official website of the Cleveland Clinic in the United States revealed the six main benefits of corn, which include:
1. **Heart Protection**
2. **Improvement of Eye Health**
3. **Maintaining Gut Health**
4. **Moderate Impact on Blood Sugar Levels**
5. **A Healthy Gluten-Free Option**
Sweet corn is an excellent source of various vitamins and minerals essential for the human body, according to the official website of Healthy SD in the United States. These nutrients include:
- **Fiber**: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated on their official website that fiber is part of a healthy dietary regimen and can provide a range of health benefits. Specifically, it can be important in preventing or managing diabetes.
- **Magnesium**: It helps the heart, muscles, and immune system to function properly, as well as assisting in regulating many bodily functions, including energy production and muscle contraction, along with maintaining nerve and muscle cells.
- **Potassium**: The official Healthy SD website noted that potassium helps lower high blood pressure.
- **Vitamin C**: It aids in iron absorption from food, collagen production, formation and repair of red blood cells, bones, and other tissues, protects the heart, prevents wrinkles, and preserves vision, among other benefits.
**Did You Know?**
- The native home of corn is the Americas.
- Corn is grown on every continent except Antarctica.
- It is widely regarded as a type of vegetable, but it is actually a cereal grain.
**How to Choose Sweet Corn?**
The official Healthy SD website indicated that the outer part of the corn should be bright green and tightly wrapped. The kernels should produce a milky substance when opened. Sweet corn can be stored in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator, but be sure to use it within two days at most. Keep the husks on until cooking, and avoid using salt while cooking sweet corn, as it may harden the kernels.
**Uses of Sweet Corn in Cooking**
Corn is characterized by its sweet taste, adding a unique flavor to various dishes. It can be grilled, steamed, or boiled, as mentioned by the official Healthy SD website. Many people add sweet corn to various types of soups, sauces, salads, and sandwiches. It is also used with rice, pasta, tuna, chicken fajitas, and beef fajitas.
