Is Cornstarch a Healthy Food?

Cornstarch is a white powder made from corn. It’s often used in cooking and baking as a thickener for soups, sauces, and gravies. It’s also used to bind ingredients together and to make doughs and batters. Although it’s often considered a healthy food, there are some potential health risks associated with it.

Nutrition

Cornstarch is mostly composed of carbohydrates and contains very little protein or fat. A single tablespoon of cornstarch provides about 30 calories and 8 grams of carbs. It also contains small amounts of other nutrients such as calcium and iron.

Digestive Issues

Because cornstarch is high in carbs, it can cause digestive upset in some people, especially those who have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Eating too much cornstarch can cause bloating, gas, constipation, cramping, and diarrhea. If you’re prone to digestive issues or have IBS, you should limit your intake of foods containing cornstarch or avoid them altogether.

Blood Sugar

Cornstarch is a source of refined carbohydrates which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels when eaten in large amounts. This could be an issue for people with diabetes who need to control their blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should monitor their intake of cornstarch carefully to make sure it’s not causing their blood sugar levels to increase too much.

Allergies

Some people are allergic to corn products like cornstarch which can cause symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. If you’re allergic to corn products or think you may be allergic to them , it’s important to talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your allergy symptoms.

Overall, while there are some potential health risks associated with eating too much cornstarch such as digestive upset or an increase in blood sugar levels for those with diabetes ,cornstarch can still be part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while there may be some potential health risks associated with eating too much cornstarch , it can still be part of a healthy diet when eaten in moderation.