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Corn
May help prevent: cancer, cataracts, heart disease, macular degeneration
An average ear of
corn carries 800 kernels, each of them jam-packed with carbohydrates,
protein, vitamins, minerals and fibre. Corn is an
excellent source of thiamin, one of the B vitamins important for maintaining
the health of the nervous system. Corn also contains plenty of niacin,
which helps to regulate blood cholesterol levels. One medium-sized yellow
corn contains about 77 calories, folate, potassium, and cholesterol-lowering
fibre. Lutein and zeaxanthin are the two yellow pigments that give corn
is golden hue. Besides colouring corn’s kernels, these carotenoids
appear to combat heart disease and cancer. Acting as antioxidants, lutein
and zeaxanthin also protect a sensitive area of the eye, preventing cataracts
and age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness
in the elderly.
Action Tip: Add corn kernels to soups, salads, stews and even muffins. Enjoy
freshly steamed corn of the cob the healthy way with no or little amount
of fat such as olive oil, butter or non-hydrogenated margarine.
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