Hoopeston, Illinois is the place to be during their annual sweet corn festival. This is the site of my favorite food experience. After almost half a century I can still taste that perfect ear of corn with full ripe kernels smothered in butter and dusted with salt.
Maize is a big cash harvest. It is more than twice as much as any other American agricultural product. It constitutes as much as ninety percent of all feed crops. Its volume and value are astounding.
This is the premier agricultural export from the United States involving half of the crop volume. Check the ingredients on hundreds of food products like cereals, breads, snacks, and even beverages and you will find it. It is a huge feed grain, and even is used for fuel.
But how nutritious and beneficial is grain to our diet especially if we are interested in losing weight?
You may have asked yourself like many others, where does corn fit in a balanced diet?
Our research has revealed that corn offers great nutritional benefits. It can be a good choice for a balanced diet. When you consider your individual goals and food plans, it may not be your best choice.
This is a plant that has very specific soil needs. It is sensitive to climate and pest issues. Scientists have researched and worked to develop the finest crop possible. Genetic engineering and cross breading have produced a stronger, fuller, better crop. It resists pests and endures environmental pressures to produce an average of 150 to 200 bushels per acre.
Today our corn crop has more, larger, fuller, and healthier ears and kernels. Not only is grain tasty it is nutritious. Corn contains phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, zinc, copper, iron, even potassium. You will find precious beta-carotene, vitamin B, Thiamin, B6, Niacin, Riboflavin, and more. It is a source of vegetable protein and fiber. Calorie content is moderate with 342 calories per 100 grams.
Even the best of foods depreciate in processing. Calories increase. Sodium and other negative ingredients increase. Beneficial qualities often decline.
Not everyone finds this grain to be a blessing. Some people struggle with digestive complications, sensitivities, and allergies. Whole solid kernels are sometimes seed in stools.
Good foods are not always best foods. This is especially true with grains which like all carbs contain loads of calories. To lose weight it is often a good idea to reduce carbs and grains.
Popcorn is often promoted as a low calorie snack, but when you consider the salt and butter watch out. Also keep in mind that microwave and theater popcorn is often processed to a point that you may not appreciate the additives.
In review, while corn is a staple grain with many nutritional benefits, it may not be your best choice. This is especially true if you experience digestive sensitivities or are serious about losing weight.
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