There are two different opinions online regarding eating corn. One believes that corn, containing starch, fat, sugar, and protein, is a high-calorie food that can cause weight gain. The other opinion argues that corn is a coarse grain and can help with weight loss. So, does eating corn make you gain weight or lose weight? Does eating corn at night make you gain weight? Let's find out.
Does eating corn at night make you gain weight?
Corn contains a large amount of dietary fiber and magnesium, which can help promote gastrointestinal motility, accelerate the excretion of waste in the body, and prevent constipation. Although corn contains starch, it stays in the stomach for a long time and can create a feeling of fullness. Therefore, eating corn has many benefits for the body. As long as you eat corn in moderation at night, there is no need to worry about gaining weight.
Can eating corn at night help with weight loss?
Eating corn has many benefits. If used as a staple food, it can also aid in weight loss. Corn contains rich calcium, phosphorus, selenium, lecithin, and vitamin E, which can lower serum cholesterol. The abundant magnesium in corn can accelerate intestinal peristalsis and promote waste elimination. Eating corn in moderation can create a sense of fullness and reduce food intake, making it beneficial for weight loss. Corn can be boiled and used as a soup or crushed to make corn porridge or corn cakes. Puffed popcorn has a large volume and can create a sense of fullness with low calorie content.
There are many benefits to eating corn
Anti-aging
The carotene in corn is converted to vitamin A in the body, which has anti-cancer effects. The plant fiber in corn can accelerate the excretion of carcinogens and other toxins in the body. Vitamin E can promote cell division, delay aging, lower serum cholesterol, and prevent skin lesions. Eating corn can inhibit the side effects of anti-cancer drugs and stimulate brain cells, enhancing memory.
Eye protection
Corn contains a large amount of lutein and zeaxanthin, which can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Therefore, corn is an excellent food for protecting the eyes and preventing presbyopia.
Blood pressure reduction
Corn has a strong effect on lowering blood pressure, mainly due to its high calcium content. The calcium content in corn is comparable to that in dairy products. Adequate calcium intake helps lower blood pressure. Hypertensive patients only need to consume 1 gram of calcium per day, and after six weeks, their blood pressure will significantly decrease. Corn can be considered a natural antihypertensive medication without any side effects.
How to eat corn for healthy weight loss
The simplest way to eat corn is to boil it in water or steam it. Boiling corn usually takes about 20 minutes, and the water used to boil corn can be consumed as well. Corn water has a cooling effect and can help reduce inflammation. When steaming corn, it is best to leave two to three layers of husk. Steaming for 25 to 30 minutes without adding any seasoning will preserve the natural flavor of corn.
Considerations when eating corn
Although corn has weight loss benefits, it should not be consumed in excess. Even if it has low calories, excessive consumption will not lead to weight loss and may be detrimental to health. Corn has a limited range of nutrients, so people relying on corn for weight loss should not rely solely on corn to avoid nutritional deficiencies. It is best to combine corn with fresh vegetables and protein-rich foods.