Antioxidant Benefits of Corn

One of the major health benefits of corn comes from its antioxidant properties. It’s a very decent source of two much known antioxidant nutrients- Vitamin C and Manganese. Both of these are responsible for many health benefits especially in the prevention of oxidative stress or oxidative damage to the cells. But interestingly most of the corn’s antioxidant benefits come from the phytonutrients or phytochemicals that it contains.

Corn is a major source of some of the antioxidant rich phytonutrients. That is why it is considered as a good food for the heart. Antioxidant properties are helpful in the protection of the heart and they reduce the risk of any heart disease. Studies suggest some of these phytonutrients have the ability to reduce angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE). Angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) is an enzyme that may cause health problems such as high blood pressure and heart failure.

Antioxidant rich phytonutrients that are found in corn are-

Anthocyanins - These are found in colourful fruits and vegetables. Anthocyanins are very rich in antioxidant properties. They are helpful in protection against LDL oxidation and prevent and repair blood vessels from damage.

Beta-carotene - Antioxidant benefits of beta-carotene are well known. These can be found mostly in orange colored vegetables and fruits. Beta-carotene protects cell from free radical damages.

Lutein - It belongs to carotenoid family, a powerful antioxidant and important nutrient for overall health especially cardiovascular health.

Caffeic acid - This phytonutrient is a powerful antioxidant and contains anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known to reduce carcinogenesis.

Coumaric acid – Antioxidant properties of coumaric acid is helpful in the prevention of stomach cancer.

Ferulic acid - It neutralizes free radicals and prevents cell damage. It gives protection against cancer, bone degeneration and reduces the levels of cholesterol and triglyceride.

Syringic acid - This chemical compound is also known for antioxidant activities.

Vanillic acid - It is an oxidized form of vanillin; known as an antioxidant phytonutrient.

Protocatechuic acid - This antioxidant compound is known for its effects to reduce cancer cells and leukaemia cells.

Zeaxanthin - Zeaxanthin is a very powerful antioxidant and great against cellular damage and macular degeneration. In addition, zeaxanthin also decreases the chances of heart disease and various cancers.

These unique antioxidant rich phytonutrients and some other important nutrients make corn a very good food for health.

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