Corn is one of the most widely eaten cereal grain in the world. Corn is composed of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, a varying amount of water, fibre and a dash of vitamins and minerals. Pregnancy is a period where you need extra nutrients and minerals in order to ensure you have a healthy diet.

Eating corn during pregnancy – Corn would be a wonderful pick during this phase and something that most moms develop a craving for during pregnancy. Corn has nutritional benefits excellent for both you and your baby.

• Relief from Constipation

Corn is an excellent source of dietary fibre which may help digestion during pregnancy and alleviate digestive issues like constipation.

• Prevents Macular Degeneration

Corn contains a carotenoid substance called zeaxanthin that has oxidative properties and prevents macular degeneration of the eye. It, therefore, helps your baby fight macular degeneration in the later stages.

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• Lessen the Risk of Neonatal Defects

Corn contains folic acid which may prove beneficial in reducing the risk of neutral malformations in the unborn baby like Spina Bifida.

• Proper Physiological Functioning

Corn has pantothenic acid which is necessary for the normal functioning of the body organs during pregnancy.

• Folate Lowers Birth Defects

Corn has folic acid that reduces the risk of spina bifida and other neutral malformations.

• Boosts Memory of the Unborn Child

Thiamine in corn aids in the development of memory in both the mother and the baby.

• Improves Immune System

Containing beta-carotene, corn provides vitamin A that is required for immune system functioning, and for healthy growth and development of the baby.

• Good for Baby’s Eyesight

Corn is full of antioxidants like lutein which may play a valuable role in improving the eyesight of the unborn baby.

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• Cancer

Experts believe that the antioxidants present eating corn during pregnancy can help prevent the occurrence of cancer in women including breast cancer.

• Tumours

Corn consists of phenolic compounds like ferulic acid which may lower the risk of tumours.

• Prevents Anaemia

Corn is an excellent source of vitamin B12 which aids in the formation of blood cells and thus can help prevent anaemia in pregnant women.

• Good Cholesterol

Intake of corn husk oil during pregnancy may promote the reduction of plasma LDL and increase the presence of good cholesterol in the body.

• Good Skin and Hair

Sweet corn benefits during pregnancy may also include good skin and hair as corn is rich in vitamins B1 and B5.

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Although, too much of anything is not good. Don’t go on eating corn during pregnancy all day. If you have heart conditions, reduce corn intake as it contains fatty acids. Corn might lead to indigestion. You should opt for eating fresh corn instead of canned or frozen corn. It is also advisable to avoid using artificial sweetening in corn to extract the maximum benefit from the nutritious cereal. Steamed, boiled or grilled corn is absolutely safe during pregnancy. Mommies should make it a point to include fresh corn in their diet.