Looking for a way to get an energy boost without packing on the pounds? Look no further than waxy maize! This unique food supplement is packed with energy, but won’t weigh you down with extra calories. Under the microscope, it looks like wax, hence the name “waxy maize.” This special type of corn is loaded with 99% starch and amylopectin and is known by a variety of other names, including glutinous corn and amylomaze. Unlike regular corn, which is high in both amylopectin and amylose, waxy maize is the perfect way to fuel your day without any unnecessary weight gain.
Amylopectin, as a complex carbohydrate, takes its time to digest in the stomach. It offers a consistent flow of energy for a prolonged period, unlike other carbohydrates that cause spikes in blood glucose levels. This quality makes it an optimal choice for individuals who are dedicated to their health and fitness journey, such as athletes and weight watchers. In this blog post, let’s delve into the seven health benefits of waxy maize and discover how it can help you achieve your goals.
For extra stamina during workouts
Glycogen is a polysaccharide that generates glucose, provides energy during intensive exercise, and is stored mainly in the liver and muscles. During ultra-endurance workouts, muscle glycogen level gets depleted as it is converted to glucose to produce energy that leads to fatigue and muscle breakdown. Waxy maize gets quickly absorbed in the stomach and passes into the bloodstream with water and nutrients, refilling the glycogen in muscles, thus preventing muscle fatigue. This makes it a perfect food supplement for athletes before and after workouts. Blend it with your favorite protein powder, or take it with water or your favorite beverage to get the best results.
Helps in weight loss
For weight loss, one usually avoids carbohydrates like rice, pasta, wheat, potato, etc., as they are high in calories. Waxy maize can be taken without guilt as it is a complex carbohydrate and low in fat. It provides sustained energy without sugar spikes in the blood. These sugar spikes lead to weight gain as a sudden rise in glucose levels signals the body to store them as fat. In 2011, the Department of Health and Exercise Science, USA, observed that waxy maize, compared to maltodextrin, metabolizes more lipids or body fats.
Gluten-Free
Gluten is a protein in many cereals like wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten intolerance is an immune reaction that occurs with the intake of this protein leading to inflammation and damage In the digestive tract, sometimes accompanied by nausea, bloating, and fatigue. People with gluten intolerance and celiac disease are advised to have a gluten-free diet. Waxy corn is a good option for people with gluten intolerance as it is naturally gluten-free and can substitute wheat in many preparations like bread, cake, and noodles.
Helps in Constipation
Waxy maize is easily digestible, so it’s best for those with gastrointestinal disorders who are struggling with weak digestion and constipation. It has a laxative effect. It becomes soft after cooking and so can be easily chewed. This helps in regular bowel movement and restoration of gut health. It also helps in the digestion and absorption of proteins taken along with it. It is a good source of fiber and vitamin C which can help to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. It does cause bloating like other carbohydrate supplements causing stomach pain, making it a good choice as a post-workout drink for athletes.
Good for heart health
Corns are generally high in vitamin E and dietary fibers, making them suitable for heart health. As waxy corn is easily digestible, it can be a perfect choice for elderly persons since vitamin E prevents many kinds of heart and coronary artery diseases by reducing the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins and their deposition in the walls of the arteries.
In diabetic cataract
Waxy maize can be helpful in diabetic patients having cataracts. A study indicates the combined effect of waxy corn and ginger in preventing cataracts and retinopathy in rats. This can be due to free radicals scavenging property of waxy maize and ginger. However, further research is required in this context.
Easy to use
Achieving the perfect consistency in your favorite recipes can be a challenge, but using waxy maize cornstarch can make it effortless. This versatile ingredient can be seamlessly mixed into your protein-rich meals and beverages without affecting their taste or aroma. It’s the perfect solution for achieving the desired thickness and viscosity in your sauces and soups while retaining their moisture content.
Parting thoughts
Incorporating small changes in our daily routine can lead to great benefits for our health and well-being. Waxy maize is just one example of a simple addition that can have a big impact. By incorporating this nutrient-rich corn into our diet, we can enjoy benefits such as a healthy heart and eyes, relief from constipation, and even weight loss. It’s amazing how something as simple as a new ingredient can make such a difference. So let’s take inspiration from this and continue to find small ways to improve our lives, one step at a time.
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DISCLAIMER – The tips provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice
