10 Health Benefits of Corn Flour
Cornflour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour that helps in thickening gravies and baked goods. It is also rich in dietary fiber that improves intestinal motility and reduces the chances of bloating. Its antidiabetic properties help in controlling blood sugar levels. Cornflour is a good source of iron that helps in producing red blood cells and prevents anemia.
1. Boosts Immune System
Corn flour contains dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health. It is also rich in disease-preventing antioxidants. However, it should be consumed in moderation. This is because it can contribute to a high carbohydrate intake and affect blood sugar levels. It is also a source of iron, which helps prevent anemia. Anemia is a condition that divests the body of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.
2. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
Corn flour (also known as masa harina) is an excellent food for the whole family. It is gluten-free and contains a wide range of nutrients. It also provides energy and is low in fat. It also helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood. It is a good source of iron, folic acid, and magnesium. Folic acid is essential for pregnant women, as it reduces the risk of birth defects.
3. Helps in Weight Management
Corn flour can be a good option as part of a healthy diet when used in moderation. It provides energy from carbohydrates and is rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. It also contains magnesium and potassium, which help to improve bone health. It is also rich in folic acid, which plays an important role during pregnancy to prevent abnormal spine and brain formation. The key difference between corn flour and arrowroot flour is that arrowroot flour contains significantly more starch.
4. Strengthens Bones
Corn flour contains nutrients such as folate, iron, carbohydrates and vitamin B-2 (riboflavin). It is also gluten-free. The minerals in corn flour, potassium and magnesium help improve bone density and strengthen connective tissues, teeth and bones. This helps lower the risk of heart diseases like high blood pressure and coronary artery disease. It is also low in sodium. Hence, it is an excellent food for the whole family.
5. Reduces Risk of Heart Disease
Corn flour contains high amounts of dietary fiber that helps reduce the level of LDL or bad cholesterol in the body. It also improves bowel movement and limits the chances of constipation. Cornflour is rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium which boost bone density by enhancing the mineral content of bones, connective tissues and teeth. It is also low in sodium which lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
6. Boosts Energy Levels
Corn flour contains a decent amount of fiber which improves the digestion process. It also helps in balancing the body’s tridoshic state by eliminating the negative energy or tamas. It also has a fair amount of iron which helps in increasing the blood cells and avoiding anemia. However, make sure to choose a non-clumpy yellow corn flour. It should also be free of moisture.
7. Helps in Digestion
Corn flour is a low-sodium food that helps to prevent high blood pressure and coronary heart diseases. It also contains magnesium and potassium which are important for bone health. It is a good source of dietary fiber which aids digestion and improves bowel movement. It also reduces the level of bad cholesterol in the body. It is an excellent food for pregnant women and children because it has folic acid that helps to prevent neural tube defects in babies.
8. Reduces Risk of Celiac Disease
Corn, also known as maize, is gluten free and therefore safe for people with celiac disease. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional wheat flour or maida, which contains gluten and is therefore not healthy for people with gluten sensitivity. Yellow corn flour is an excellent source of iron. This is important for maintaining the health of your red blood cells and combating anemia. It also helps to improve bone health, thanks to the potassium and magnesium it contains.
9. Helps in Blood Sugar Control
Corn flour is an excellent source of fiber and resistant starch that moderates the body’s response to insulin. It is also a good source of vitamin A, which promotes tissue function and supports eye health. It is rich in folic acid, which is vital for pregnancy. It also contains vitamin B-2, known as riboflavin, and vitamin B-3, or niacin. It is gluten-free, making it a safe food for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
10. Helps in Weight Loss
Corn flour is calorie-dense and has a high carbohydrate content, so it can be a barrier to weight loss. However, it also provides some dietary fiber, which helps promote feelings of fullness and support healthy digestion. Yellow corn flour is a good source of folic acid, which can help prevent anemia during pregnancy. It also contains minerals like magnesium and potassium, which improve bone health.