Should you be eating corn from the roadside this season?

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As a popular street food in Nigeria, corn is prepared either by boiling or by roasting. It is a popular debate between boiled corn lovers and roasted corn lovers. However, there are a few factors that should be considered before you go buying corn off the roadside.

1. Not good for Diabetics

Corn increases the blood sugar level in the body because of its high carbohydrate content, so it has adverse affects on diabetics. Hence, people suffering from diabetes should not consume corn in large quantities.

2. Increases chance of Allergies

Due to some proteins in corn, consumption might lead to allergies such as rashes on the skin, vomiting, swelling of the mucous membrane, etc. Some people also suffer from asthma attack after eating corn.

3. Causes indigestion

As a good source of fiber and other vital nutrients, corn helps in flushing out bad toxins from the body. However, consuming corn in high quantity can be bad for the stomach. For instance, if you eat large portions of cereals, it often leads to indigestion and stomach cramps.

4. Causes bloating

Due to its high percentage of starch, corn breaks down in the large intestine and produces a lot of gas when consumed. So if consumed in large quantities, then it can cause bloating and flatulence. This also increases satiety and aids weight loss.

5. Causes Toothache

Corn contains a good amount of sugar, therefore, tooth decay might occur in some cases. It is relatively rare side effect of corn, but not any less important. It is good to maintain good oral hygiene and brush your teeth after eating corn.

6. Leads to lethargy

Lethargy is a general lack of energy and enthusiasm. Corn contains an ample amount of starch. Starch can cause drowsiness and lead to lethargy.

7. Causes osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition of fragile bone with an increased susceptibility to fracture. Corn does not contain adequate calcium to sustain a human, so people who depend on corn are very susceptible to osteoporosis. This only occurs if corn is not supplemented with appropriate calcium-rich food.

How do you like your corn — boiled or roasted?