As vegetarianism becomes more popular, the availability of plant-based snacks and drinks has surged. If you’re a vegetarian or simply seeking to try something different, corn milk is a great option to consider. While cow’s milk is well-known, corn milk offers a unique alternative.
Corn is packed with essential nutrients, including vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, choline, and beta-carotene. Curious about the health benefits of corn milk? Here are seven benefits you might not have heard of:
- Lowers Cholesterol
Corn oil has been shown to reduce lipid accumulation in the blood, which can increase HDL (good) cholesterol and decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol. This is supported by research indicating that corn oil can reduce cholesterol absorption in the body. Additionally, sweet corn has been found to help regulate cholesterol levels. - Prevents Anemia
Anemia occurs when there aren’t enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to your organs. Corn contains about 0.52 milligrams of iron per 100 grams, which is crucial for blood formation. Consuming corn milk can help prevent anemia, especially in women going through menopause. - Supports Eye Health
For those who spend a lot of time in front of a computer, corn milk can be beneficial. Corn is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that help protect the eyes from macular degeneration. The deeper the yellow color of the corn, the higher its antioxidant content, which also aids in improving vision by producing vitamin A. - Prevents Constipation
Corn milk is high in both soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fiber helps reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, while insoluble fiber supports the digestive system. This combination can alleviate symptoms of diarrhea and prevent issues like constipation, hemorrhoids, and even colon cancer. - Promotes Heart Health
Corn has an antiatherogenic effect, which means it helps prevent the oxidation of fats in the body. This reduces the absorption of bad fats while allowing good fats to be absorbed, thus lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The omega-3 fatty acids in corn also help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure, further decreasing the risk of heart attacks. - Moisturizes Skin
Drinking corn milk can surprisingly help moisturize your skin. Corn is rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, vitamin C, and lycopene, which keep your skin healthy and radiant. These antioxidants also protect the skin from UV damage. - Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Corn contains phenolic compounds that help regulate insulin absorption, keeping blood sugar levels stable. Additionally, corn is rich in pantothenic acid, which aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, supporting proper adrenal gland function. Studies have shown that consuming corn can help manage symptoms of type 2 diabetes and control blood pressure.
Corn is a versatile vegetable beneficial for everyone, including babies. Its various forms, such as corn flour, also offer numerous health benefits. Curious to learn more? Explore the benefits of corn and its many derivatives.