Guinea corn is a popular cereal in Africa. As the name says, guinea corn belongs in the same problem as corn, rice, and wheat. Known by its other name, Sorghum, guinea corn has been cultivated in Nigeria for centuries. It is one of the most produced cereal crop in the world. Guinea corn is often ground into flour and used to make bread, porridge and pancakes.
These days, however, guinea corn has taken a backseat, as people do not consume it like they used to, although it is still used in the production of cereals, especially baby foods. Guinea corn is popular for its rich, great, taste. It is naturally sweet and is often processed into sugar. The sugar gotten from guinea corn is a healthier than the regular kind, as it does not cause an increase in blood sugar levels and it does not contain a lot of calories. In addition to that, guinea corn is rich in a range of nutrients, including magnesium, calcium, copper, phosphorous, potassium, zinc, and so on, making it a very healthy food. Other minerals and vitamins in guinea corn are vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B6. It is also very rich in protein, fibre, and carbohydrates.
Today, we would be looking at some of the health benefits of guinea corn.
1. Improves Digestion
One key benefit of eating guinea corn is that it improves the process of digestion, due to the high fibre content it has. Fibre makes it easier for food to digest, preventing constipation, irregular bowel syndrome, and other gastrointestinal problems. Fibre also makes it easier to pass out waste by adding bulk to stool.
2. Good For The Bones
Eating guinea corn would also strengthen bones and teeth. This is because it is rich in calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium, which are nutrients that are good for bone health. Phosphorous helps in the formation of bones and teeth, which is why it is particularly beneficial to children who are growing. It also helps to increase bone density, along with calcium. Magnesium makes it easier for the body to absorb calcium, which helps to make the bones stronger. Guinea corn is good for those who suffer from osteoporosis, a condition that results in brittle bones.
3. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Another benefit of guinea corn is that it does not cause a sharp increase in blood sugar levels in the body. This is because it is digested by the body at a slower pace, unlike some other foods. That way, there is no sudden spike in the sugar levels in the body. This makes it very good for people with diabetes and people who want to eat healthier generally.
4. Prevents Anaemia
Anaemia is a condition that occurs due to a lack of red blood cells in the body. Red blood cells are necessary to transport oxygen to tissues in the body. One of the key nutrients in the production of red blood cells is iron. So, anaemia often occurs when there is an iron deficiency. But guinea corn can remedy that as it contains iron and copper, two nutrients that boost the production of red blood cells. Pregnant women, who are at risk of anaemia, can include guinea corn in their diet to boost red blood cell production.
5. Helps With Weight Loss
To achieve proper weight loss, you do not have to starve yourself, rather you need to eat the right food, like guinea corn. Guinea corn has a high fibre content, which makes it very satisfying and can make one feel full for a very long time. That way, you can go hours without eating, while feeling satisfied.
6. A Gluten-free Food
People with health conditions like celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, cannot eat foods that contain gluten. Nonetheless, guinea corn is perfect for people with those conditions, because it is gluten-free. There are not many Nigerian foods that are gluten-free, but sorghum is a super healthy gluten-free food option.
7. Rich In Vitamin B1
Guinea corn is loaded with vitamin B1 (thiamine), a water soluble vitamin. 100 grams of guinea corn provides the body with 28% Daily Value (DV) of vitamin B1. This vitamin helps to prevent complications in the nervous system, brain, muscles, heart, stomach, and intestines. Furthermore, it plays a role in the flow of electrolytes into and out of muscle and nerve cell. Lastly, it prevents diseases such as beriberi, which affects disorders of the heart, nerves, and digestive system.
Bottom Line
Guinea corn is a heay whole grain packed with fortifying nutrients and amazing health benefits. The health benefits of guinea corn include its ability to boost bone health, improve digestion, prevent anaemia, and supply vitamin B1.
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