Corn and Digestive Health

Corn can be good for your digestive system due to its high fiber content. It is rich in insoluble fiber, which bulks up stool and prevents constipation. The fiber in corn also acts as a prebiotic, feeding the healthy bacteria in your gut and helping your digestive system break down and absorb nutrients from corn.

Colored Corn and Digestive Health

One study found that Anthocyanins in colored corn may have a positive effect on digestive health.

Moderation is Key

However, it's important to consume corn in moderation, as too much of it can lead to significant gastrointestinal symptoms for some people due to the body's inability to break down cellulose, a component of corn. While the human body cannot digest corn, the fiber and plant compounds in corn may aid digestive health and protect against gut issues. Therefore, including corn as part of a balanced diet can be beneficial for your digestive system.

How Much Corn is Too Much?

The amount of corn that's "too much" for digestive health can vary depending on several factors, including age, overall health, fiber intake, and preparation. By general guideline, most healthy adults can safely consume around 1-2 servings of whole corn per day. Start with smaller amounts and gradually increase your intake if you're not used to eating much fiber. Pay attention to your body's signals. If you experience bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea after eating corn, reduce your intake or stop eating it altogether. If you have any concerns about your digestive health, it's always best to talk to your doctor.

Incorporating Corn into Your Diet

Corn can be incorporated into your diet without causing digestive problems by consuming it in moderation and preparing it in a way that makes it easier to digest. Chewing corn for longer can help the digestive system break down cellulose walls to access more nutrients. Some producers still use an ancient method of corn preparation known as nixtamalization, which involves soaking and cooking the corn in lime, an alkaline solution containing calcium hydroxide. This process makes the corn more digestible and is used to make food products such as cornmeal, tortillas, and tamales. It's also important to stay hydrated when consuming fiber-rich foods like corn to help prevent constipation. Additionally, it's recommended to start with a small serving of corn and gradually increase intake over time to allow the body to adjust. Finally, it's best to avoid adding a lot of extras like butter and salt to corn and instead try healthier toppings like olive oil, lime juice, reduced-fat feta cheese, or salsa.

The information in this article is backed by research findings and the image used is from depositphotos.com.