It’s the monsoon season, and one of the best snack during this time is roasted whole corn with a dash of lime, red chilli powder, and salt. For Mumbaikars, it’s a must have known as ‘Bhuta’.
Roasted corn is a healthier snack compared to fried fries, samosas or other unhealthy options typically chosen during the rainy season. So why is corn healthy? You will be surprised to know that this small kernel of corn is packed with nutrients and is a perfect snack to boost overall health.
Corn is rich in fibre and low in carbohydrates. A cup of sweet corn provides 3.5 grams of dietary fibre, keeping you full and aiding in with weight loss, making it a perfect mid-snack for weight watchers.
Yes! Even diabetics can enjoy it in controlled portions. Corn offers a source of complex carbs, providing your body with long-lasting fuel. Being a starchy food, corn’s carbs are broken down slowly, preventing sudden spikes or drops in blood sugar levels.
During monsoon, the digestive system tends to gets sluggish. The soluble fibre in corn keeps our gut healthy and helps prevent colon cancer too. Insoluble fibre prevents constipation and other intestinal problems by promoting soft and bulky stool that moves easily through the intestines.
Corn is a rich source of B complex vitamin, which increase mental ability and boosts memory. Its also a good source of Vitamin C, Niacin, Thiamine, Folate, and Potassium, which help prevent heart disease, hypertension, and lowers bad cholesterol.
Colourful Corn Cob
This tiny food is loaded with Phytonutrients such as carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, responsible for its bright yellow colour, which improves eye health. Corn is packed with minerals like phosphorous, magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron, copper, and the trace mineral selenium.
Corn has good protein content, containing all amino acid except lysine and isoleucine. Make a corn salad with tofu or cheese or add some nuts, eggs or lentils to make it a complete protein snack.
Corn is rich in antioxidants, phenolic compounds, and ferulic acid, which have the capability to fight tumours in the breast and liver.
Corn Bhel
If you suffer from celiac disease or are gluten intolerant, corn is a safe vegetable for you to eat. It is naturally gluten-free, making it a great substitute for other ingredients.
Besides enjoying corn on the cob, steamed or roasted, try corn bhel, corn pizza, corn patties, baked corn, corn biryani or corn frankies.
Too lazy or in hurry? Just toss steamed corn kernels in an olive oil-salt-pepper-herbs dressing and enjoy it as you watch the rain go pitter-patter on the windows.
Word of caution
Remember, while sweet corn is a healthy treat, corn slathered in butter and doused in salt is not a healthy option.
So go ahead and enjoy this guilt-free snack!
We hope this article helps you. Do you have a favorite way to enjoy sweet corn? Share it with us in the comments below! For more tips on healthy snacking and nutrition, speak to a certified expert by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.
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