Corn flour: The underrated superfood in your kitchen | Fusion - WeRIndia

Corn flour often hides behind popular flours like wheat or rice. However, it offers surprising health benefits and versatile uses.

Made by finely grinding whole dried corn kernels, it is naturally gluten-free and packed with health benefits.

Unlike cornstarch, which contains only the starchy part, corn flour includes the whole kernel, making it richer in nutrients.

There are several types of corn flour. Yellow corn flour is the most common and flavorful. White corn flour is milder and perfect for sauces.

Blue corn flour contains antioxidants and a nutty taste. Cornmeal is coarser and great for baking. Masa harina is treated with lime and used in tortillas.

Nutritionally, corn flour is rich in carbohydrates and dietary fibre, offering a quick energy boost and better digestion.

It also provides essential vitamins like B1, B6, and folate, along with minerals like iron and magnesium.

For those with gluten intolerance, corn flour is an ideal replacement. It supports digestive health, boosts energy, and promotes heart health due to its fibre and phytosterols.

In addition, its antioxidants, like lutein and zeaxanthin, support eye health and fight inflammation.

Corn flour also benefits the skin. It acts as a gentle exfoliant, absorbs excess oil, and soothes irritated skin. You can easily include it in DIY face masks or scrubs.

Despite its benefits, corn flour has some drawbacks. It is calorie-dense, which may lead to weight gain if overused.

It can also raise blood sugar, so people with diabetes should limit intake. Rarely, it may cause allergic reactions.

Use corn flour in your kitchen in many ways. Make cornbread, pancakes, or tortillas.

Replace part of your regular flour in cakes or muffins. It adds a subtle taste and nutritional boost.

Corn flour is affordable, widely available, and costs as little as ₹30–₹50 per kg in India. Include it wisely in your diet for both taste and health.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Published on October 03, 2018

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/1541111