The Surprising Health Benefits of Corn Starch You Need to Know
Corn starch is often used as a thickener in a variety of foods, from sauces to soups and stews. But did you know that this common ingredient has surprising health benefits? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why corn starch might be worth incorporating into your diet, beyond its culinary uses.
What Is Corn Starch?
Corn starch is a fine, powdery substance made from corn kernels. It’s often used in cooking because it has a neutral taste and is an effective thickener. When added to liquids, it can turn them into a thicker, more viscous consistency.
Health Benefits of Corn Starch
1. May Boost Digestive Health
Corn starch contains resistant starch, a type of starch that resists digestion in the small intestine and moves to the large intestine. In the large intestine, it’s fermented by gut bacteria, creating short-chain fatty acids that can promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria. This can improve digestive health and reduce the risk of digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer.
2. May Improve Blood Sugar Control
Resistant starch is also believed to have a beneficial effect on blood sugar control. It can slow down the absorption of glucose from the small intestine, which can prevent blood sugar spikes after a meal. Some studies have shown that incorporating resistant starch into a meal can improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
3. May Aid in Weight Loss
Because resistant starch is indigestible, it can help you feel full for longer periods of time. This can reduce overall calorie intake and aid in weight loss. Additionally, resistant starch may increase fat burning and reduce the storage of fat in the body.
4. May Lower Cholesterol Levels
Research suggests that resistant starch may also have a cholesterol-lowering effect. It can bind to bile acids in the intestine, which are then excreted from the body rather than being reabsorbed. This can lead to a decrease in cholesterol levels in the blood, which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease.
How to Incorporate Corn Starch into Your Diet
There are many ways to incorporate corn starch into your diet beyond its use as a thickener. It can be mixed with other flours to make baked goods, blended into smoothies, or added to soups and stews for added thickness and nutrition.
Conclusion
Corn starch is a versatile ingredient that can do more than just thicken sauces. Its many health benefits make it a valuable addition to any diet, particularly for those looking to improve digestive health, blood sugar control, weight management, and cholesterol levels. By incorporating corn starch into your cooking and meal planning, you can reap these benefits and take a step towards better health.
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