The corn, along with wheat and rice, is one of the most important cereals in the world. It supplies nutrients to humans and animals and is a basic raw material for the processing industry, used to produce starch, oil, proteins, alcoholic beverages, food sweeteners, and, more recently, fuel.
Corn, Child of Indigenous Peoples
Corn is a species of grass native and domesticated by indigenous peoples in central Mexico about 10,000 years ago. It was not known to Europeans until they arrived in the Americas and learned that a large part of the native diet was based on its use. In fact, indigenous peoples considered maize the food of the gods who created the Earth. The Olmecs and Mayans cultivated numerous varieties of grain across Mesoamerica, preparing it cooked or ground. Corn spread to the rest of the world due to its ability to grow in diverse climates. The varieties rich in sugar, called sweet corn, are generally cultivated for human consumption as grains, while field corn varieties are used for animal feed, chemical extraction such as starch, and production of derivatives like flour, dough, oil, etc.
Advantages of Using Corn
For humans, the importance of corn has always been very clear. While some regions recognize hundreds of types of corn, most of the planet consumes only a handful of the most common and accessible varieties suitable for different terrains and climates. Today, it is produced on all continents (except Antarctica) and is highly valued because it yields more than many other grains, making it affordable. But nutrition is not the only benefit; this resource is appreciated worldwide for the many products derived from it. Some common uses include the manufacture of cooking oil, which is very economical. Dried leaves are used to make fibers for weaving baskets, hats, rugs, and ornaments, or as feed for livestock, or even as paper for cigarettes. The remnants of cobs are used in craft design. Additionally, it is believed that corn husks have medicinal properties and are used to treat kidney ailments, control hypertension, reduce cholesterol levels, and address some digestive issues.
Eating Corn, Benefits of Consumption
Being highly rich in proteins, the nutritional benefits of corn are reflected in a 60% protein intake among those who consume it. It is rich in vitamin B1, essential for the brain to absorb glucose and for the transformation of foods into energy. It contains vitamin B7 or biotin, which supports good skin health and hair growth. It is also rich in vitamin A, which acts as an antioxidant in preventing diseases such as cancer. It contains fiber that helps fight constipation and is ideal for diets aimed at weight loss or lowering cholesterol levels. Besides these benefits, corn has diuretic properties when consumed as a tea infusion and is an ingredient in certain oils (such as corn oil) and syrups.
The use of this cereal is very diverse; it can be enjoyed grilled or boiled, and is also commonly found in salads, breakfast dishes, and the universal tradition of eating popcorn during a good movie.
