Benefits of eating cornstarch

In this brief guide, we will discuss some health benefits and uses of eating cornstarch.

What is cornstarch?

Known by several names, such as corn flour, maize starch, and maizena. Corn starch is a carbohydrate derived from the endosperm of corn. The endosperm, often known as the white center of the maize kernel, is used to grind it into a powder. Corn starch is gluten-free since it is produced from corn and solely includes carbs (no protein). Even though it is not a strong source of vitamins and minerals, it may help boost calories for those in need, function as a source of energy, and avoid low blood sugar in individuals with nocturnal hypoglycemia.

Many culinary, domestic, and industrial uses may be found for this white powdered material. When it comes to cooking, maize starch is most commonly used as a thickener for sauces and gravies. In addition, it is utilized in the manufacturing of adhesives for paper and textiles, as well as corn sugar and corn syrup.

However, cornstarch and cornflour are not identical. Thicker than flour, starch comes from the interior of maize seeds.

Origin of cornstarch

To make corn starch gluten-free, the corn kernels are ground into a fine powder. Then, the product is cleaned, dried, and packaged. Corn kernel endosperm (Zea mays) is used to make it. Corn kernel endosperm accounts for around 70% of the corn kernel. Papyrus was coated with starch by the ancient Egyptians, who used it to make papyrus. Starch was used by the Romans in cosmetics, medicine, food, and textiles.

A large-scale effective method of corn starch extraction was discovered in the middle of the nineteenth century, though. Teosinte, an early form of corn, is a New World ingredient. As a result, corn as a starch source is a comparatively new development.

Nutritional advantages of cornstarch

Aside from bread and gravies, cornstarch has a wide range of additional applications. Several physiological problems can be treated using this secret. Learn more about the health advantages of cornstarch by reading on.

·         Infection with Athlete’s Foot

An athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the top layer of the foot’s skin, resulting in a foul odor. Fungus thrives in warm, moist environments, which is why athletes, who like to sweat in their shoes, are often affected. Water-absorbing cornstarch is an excellent preventive treatment. You can keep your feet dry by sprinkling cornstarch on them to avoid fungal growth.

·         Deodorant

Natural deodorant can benefit from cornstarch’s capacity to absorb moisture as well as its lack of fragrance. 3 tbsp organic cornstarch, 4 tbsp baking soda, and 5 tbsp coconut oil to add a smell, add five drops of tea tree oil to the mix if you want to. Make a paste out of all the ingredients and store it in an airtight jar. This mixture may not be as effective as conventional deodorants, but it’s surely more natural and less costly than standard deodorants.

·         Bugs bite

When exposed to moisture, oil, and germs, bug bites can become more severe and irritating. Apply a cornstarch paste on the bite to keep it clean and dry, and to reduce itching. Prepare a peanut butter-like paste by mixing three tablespoons of cornstarch with lukewarm water. Apply with a gauze pad or a cotton ball.

·         Getting Rid of Oil Stains

There are indeed a multitude of DIY stain-removal treatments, but cornstarch is particularly useful for greasy spills and blotches. Sprinkle some cornstarch on the stain, let it soak up some of the moisture, and then proceed with your normal cleaning procedure to remove it.

·         Assist in the healing of diaper rash

Cornstarch is a simple solution for this common baby issue. It’s safer than talcum powder and diaper creams since it’s edible and inert, and it may be used repeatedly without causing any harm. Make sure to use an old-fashioned powder puff to gently sprinkle the diaper area with cornstarch every time you do a diaper change.

·         Help in weight loss

Dietary intake of high-amylose cornstarch has been investigated as a possible therapy for obesity. Scientists believe that cornstarch’s delayed glycemic response may aid to lower hunger, improve fullness, and reduce overall calorie consumption.

It’s worth noting that the results of the research including young and healthy women were not overwhelming. Even though the women’s glucose absorption was delayed, corn starch did not lower hunger or calorie intake when eaten with high amylose corn starch.

·         The best way to avoid chafing

Rough seams and stiff clothes can chafe the skin. Cornstarch can be used to decrease friction. To make things easier, fill an old talcum powder container with cornstarch before you start. You may fill the can with lavender blossoms for a pleasant scent.

Other FAQs about Cornstarch that you may be interested in.

Can cornstarch thicken cold liquids?

Does cornstarch tenderize meat?

Is cornflour the same as cornstarch?

Conclusion

In this brief guide, we discussed some health benefits and uses of eating cornstarch.

References

https://www.verywellfit.com/cornstarch-nutrition-facts-and-health-benefits-5084478
https://www.livestrong.com/article/479831-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-cornstarch/