Health Benefits of Corn on the Cob

Corn on the cob was first domesticated somewhere between 9000 and 8000 BC in Mexico and Central America. It was important to the Mayans and Olmecs, who revered it and incorporated it into their daily rituals, religious ceremonies and used it as a motif in their art. Certainly by 2000 BC it was a staple in the diets of the peoples of Mesoamerica. Native Americans also held it in esteem and it was one of their staple foods, but one which the early colonists seemed to disdain. Times have changed, however and summer wouldn't be the same without freshly picked corn on the cob dripping with olive oil which is a healthier alternative to butter.

Is corn on the cob good for your health? The simple answer is yes, but the reasons for this answer are a little more complicated.

Corn contains vitamins A, C and some of the B-complex vitamins, namely thiamin (B1), niacin (B2) and riboflavin (B3) along with pantothenic acid (B5) and vitamin B6. It also contains beta-carotene, folate, fibre and the minerals selenium, potassium, traces of copper, calcium, sodium and zinc. It also contains 18 amino acids including the 8 essential ones, along with phytonutrients, making it a truly health-giving snack.

Yellow corn (there are blue, black and purple types too) provides the body with ammunition to fight the scavenging free radicals which can damage cells and cause cancer and other illnesses, as the vitamins and minerals combine to make potent antioxidants.

We need small amounts of selenium in our diets as it can help the thyroid gland function healthily as well as boosting the immune system, helping the body combat illness.

The B-complex vitamins are good for healthy skin, hair and eyes, and help the central nervous system function normally. They can help lower cholesterol levels in the blood and help prevent the risks of strokes and heart disease. Niacin in particular may help lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and is good for the digestive and central nervous system; it is also good for the brain and our memory. It may also improve symptoms of arthritis and give improved joint mobility and give relief from pain. Niacin is also vital for sexual health as it produces sex and stress related hormones, so combined with the potassium in corn on the cob, it can help improve sexual health.

Thiamin (B1), is required for normal growth so is necessary in a child's diet. It also may help reduce the incidence of cataracts and can improve a woman's fertility. Apart from these things, it might also help raise people out of depression.

Potassium is a vital mineral as it plays a role in bone and muscle health as well as being heart-protective and lowering the risks of strokes.

All in all, corn on the cob which has been grilled, or barbecued with the husk still on it or steamed is a very healthy snack. It provides you with a lot of the fibre you need to keep your colon active and healthy and is low in calories. Eat it with olive oil instead of butter for a heart-protective snack.