Corn phytochemicals and their health benefits

Abstract

Whole grain has a wide range of phytochemicals exhibiting health benefits of lowering risk of chronic diseases. As commonly consumed grain product, corn has unique profiles of nutrients and phytochemicals when compared with other whole grains. Corn nutrients and phytochemicals include vitamins (A, B, E, and K), minerals (Mg, P, and K), phenolic acids (ferulic acid, coumaric acid, and syringic acid), carotenoids and flavonoids (anthocyanins), and dietary fiber. More and more scientific evidences have shown that regular consumption of whole grain corn lowers the risk of developing chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity and improves digestive health. Further studies on bioactive compounds of corn related to health are needed. Keywords: Corn, Maize, Whole grains, Phytochemicals, Cardiovascular disease, Resistant starch, Type II diabetes, Diet and chronic diseases