Corn, also known as maize, is a well-known cereal grain extensively consumed worldwide. Yet, is it safe to eat corn during pregnancy and give in to your crunchy corn craving? The cereal is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but all forms of corn may not be good for pregnant women. Read this post that discusses the value corn adds to your pregnancy diet, possible risks, storage tips, and recipes.
Can You Eat Corn During Pregnancy?
You may eat corn during pregnancy but in moderate amounts, as it helps improve digestion, and supports immunity. But excessive consumption might lead to gastrointestinal symptoms such as indigestion.
Nutritional Value Of Corn
The nutrients present in 100g of raw corn are as follows (1):
What Are The Health Benefits Of Corn During Pregnancy?
1. Constipation
The fiber content in corn might help address digestive problems, such as constipation, that you may experience during early pregnancy (4).
2. Macular degeneration
Corn contains a carotenoid substance called zeaxanthin that has oxidative properties. Zeaxanthin may help prevent macular degeneration of the eye (3) (5). However, further studies are needed to establish the carotenoids’ role in preventing certain disorders that affect infants (6).
3. Birth defects
Corn has folic acid that is necessary during pregnancy to reduce the risk of spina bifida and other neural malformations in the baby (7).
4. Muscle and nervous system
Corn contains thiamine which plays a role in energy metabolism and is essential for muscle and nervous system functioning (8) (9).
5. Immunity
The beta-carotene in corn provides vitamin A required for immune system functioning and healthy growth and development of the baby (10).
Possible Side Effects Of Overeating Corn When Pregnant
Potential side effects of corn may occur due to over-consumption.
According to one small group study in mice, intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids such as corn could alter the behavior and activity of the baby (11).
It may cause indigestion; therefore, it is better to have fresh corn in limited amounts.
Wendy Lord, a registered dietitian and health and nutrition writer from Gauteng, South Africa, says, “Eating corn in excess can cause indigestion and other digestive problems. Overconsumption of corn also increases the risk of heart illness because it is a rich source of fatty acids. It can also result in unnecessary weight gain that can be problematic for women during or after the delivery.” From fresh raw corn to cooked and baked and popped, corn is available in a variety of edible forms. But are all of them good for you to eat during pregnancy?
Corn Products To Eat And Those To Avoid
Not all corn products may be safe during pregnancy. The following list can help you get an idea of what could be taken and avoided. However, it is not exhaustive. So, how can you enjoy the allowed forms of corn in pregnancy?
Ways To Consume Corn During Pregnancy
You may have corn as a snack.
Sweet corn is a delicious addition to salads, soups, toast, and sandwiches.
Add to pizzas, pasta, and other dishes to enhance their taste.
Grill or barbecue the cob and eat corn directly from it.
Boil corn and add seasoning of your preference.
Choose the right variety of corn to enjoy the taste of these dishes.
Tips For Buying and Storing Corn
Follow the below tips while buying corn:
Look for husks that are green in color.
Choose only fresh corn. You may check the freshness by pulling off the husk and piercing the kernel with a fingernail.
If the corn kennel is firm but soft and releases a little juice on being punctured, it is fresh. On the other hand, if it is discolored or dented, it is not.
Corn exposed to high temperatures can lose a bit of its sweet flavor, as the sugar gets converted to starch.
Let the corn remain in the husk; put it in the refrigerator.
If you have husked the corn, put it in a plastic bag, and refrigerate it.
If you want to eat fresh corn, eat it as soon as you bring it home.
Fresh corn has a certain appeal that might compel you to have more than what you should. And that can be a bad thing.
Is Craving Cornstarch During Pregnancy Related To The Pica Syndrome?
Sometimes, you may crave for cornstarch during pregnancy. This might be because of a condition called the Pica Syndrome, which involves the craving of non-food substances such as clay, ice, dirt, and more (12). If you experience such symptoms, talk to your doctor. Lord opines, “Cravings are normal in pregnancy; however, in some cases, craving corn means a woman is deficient in nutrients such as iron and vitamin A. Corn cravings can also occur during pregnancy as a result of hormonal imbalance.”
Why Is Microwave Popcorn Not Safe During Pregnancy?
You may want to avoid microwave popcorn for these reasons (13). Next, we answer a few common queries about eating corn during pregnancy.
