Fact-checked by Lucent 3 months ago
Total Sources: 52
Verified Claims: 34
Scientific Sources: 25
Corn, also known as maize, is a globally significant grain, originally domesticated in Mexico around 9,000 years ago [29], [17]. It is a staple food for humans and livestock and a key ingredient in numerous industrial products [29], [5].
Corn is a cereal grain from the plant *Zea mays*, characterized by its kernels attached to a cob. It is a major source of carbohydrates and also provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals [5].
Food for human consumption (e.g., corn flour, tortillas, cornbread)
Animal feed
Production of ethanol fuel
Ingredients in industrial products (e.g., plastics, adhesives)
Corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup in processed foods
Domestication of teosinte in southern Mexico begins [29].
Corn cultivation spreads throughout the Americas [29].
Christopher Columbus encounters corn, introducing it to Europe [30].
The Corn Laws are enacted in the United Kingdom, regulating the import and export of grain [33].
The first hybrid corn is produced and sold commercially [18].
Biochemists develop genetic engineering, impacting corn modification [18].
The first GMO produce (a tomato) becomes available for sale [18].
Mexico bans genetically modified corn and the use of herbicide glyphosate in the production of food for human consumption [22].
Whole grain corn products may have favorable effects on blood lipid and glycemic profiles [5], [15].
Refined corn products may be linked to less favorable metabolic outcomes, especially in individuals with metabolic disorders [5].
Corn silk has been found to exert an antihypertensive effect [8].
Some studies suggest a link between high-fructose corn syrup and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) [7].
Effects of Corn Flour Consumption on Human Health across the Lifespan: A Scoping Review
Whole grain corn products are associated with favorable effects on blood lipid and glycemic profiles, while refined corn products may exacerbate metabolic risks [5].
Evaluating the Effects of Corn Flour Product Consumption on Cardiometabolic Outcomes and the Gut Microbiota in Adults with Elevated Cholesterol: A Randomized Crossover
A blend of refined corn meal and corn bran significantly decreased LDL cholesterol over time in adults with elevated LDL cholesterol [15].
Corn Silk Tea for Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Corn silk tea plus antihypertensive drugs may be more effective in lowering blood pressure compared with antihypertensive drugs alone, though evidence is limited [8].
Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for its intended uses [1]. However, concerns exist regarding specific corn derivatives, potential allergic reactions, and the safety of GMO corn [26], [31].
The health effects of corn vary depending on the type and processing methods. Whole grain corn and corn bran may offer metabolic benefits, while highly processed varieties may increase metabolic risks [5].
Quinoa or Amaranth
These are fiber-rich whole-grain options that also provide plant-based protein [34].
Corn Tortilla Chips
Corn is a whole grain, making corn tortilla chips a better choice than potato chips [34].
Dates and Peanut Butter
This is a better on-the-go treat because dates are naturally sweet and high in fiber and antioxidants, unlike many granola bars that are loaded with added sugars [34].
Whole-Grain or Bean-Based Pasta
These alternative pastas are tasty and have fiber and protein [34].
Oatmeal
Oatmeal has fiber and resistant starches to stabilize blood sugar, unlike breakfast cereal, which often has added sugars [34].
Rice, Millet, or Arrowroot Starch
These can be used instead of cornstarch [40].