Scientists have developed Genetically Modified sweet corn,which is able to produce a poison that destroys harmful insects.This implies that farmers will not need to fight insects with insecticides.The GM corn is called Bt-corn because the insect-killing gene in the plant comes from the bacteria;Bacillus thuringiensis.

Since the farmer does not need to use insecticide to kill insects,the surrounding environment is no longer exposed to large amounts of harmful insecticides.
Today,corn is the third most cultivated grain in the world,after wheat and rice.

Attributes of sweet corn

Sweet corn contains 76% water substantially more than other drier varieties of corn.This is because it is harvested before it is ripe;hence it contains a higher percentage of water as well as sugars,which gives it its pleasant tenderness and flavor

The following are sweet corn's main nutrients:

Proteins:Sweet corn contains about 3.2% protein by weight,but on drying,these may reach up to 10%.The most abounding protein in a kernel of corn is known as zein. Although it contains all essential amino acids,2 are deficient;lysine and tryptophan.
Corn protein,although easily digestable,is deficient to satisfy the amino acid needs of the body by itself,especially during periods of growth and development.Nonetheless,the compounding of corn with legumes provides a complete protein.

Carbohydrates:These constitute 16.3% of its weight.These are formed of a mixture of sugars and starch.Unripe kernels contain more sugar,while riper ones contain a higher ratio of starch.Both types of carbohydrates are easily digested and absorbed.

Fibre:Its a good source of fibre(2.65%),both soluble and insoluble types.

Fats:This constitutes about 2% of its weight and is found especially in the germ.It is rich in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids,especially linoleic acid.Oil extracted from this fat is effective against excess cholesteral.

Vitamins:Yellow sweet corn contains a reliable amount of provitamin A,while white corn contains almost none.
Corn is a good source of vitamin B1 and supplies a samall amount of vitamin C.

Minerals:Corn contains significant amounts of potassium,magnesium,phosphorus and iron.

Eating corn is advised in the following cases:

Thinness in general:Corn in any form is advised for weight gain diets.

Enteric disorders:Corn contains no gluten, which makes it easily endured in delicate digestive systems.It is advised especially in these instances:

Celiac Disease This disease comes about as a result of intestinal intolerance of wheat gluten.

Weaning diet for feeding infants.

Irritable bowel distinguished by alternating between intervals of constipation and diarrhea.

Hyperthyroidism:Corn has a slight retarding effect on metabolism in general.Its intake is suitable in cases of hyperthyroidism distinguished by thinness and nervouseness among other symptoms.

Excess cholesterol and fat in the blood:The bran covering each kernel of corn(sweet corn) as well as in cornmeal is able to reduce blood cholesterol.

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