Corn starch - benefits and harm to the body

Corn starch is a white powder extracted from ears of corn. Mistresses bring it into products for bonding ingredients. His ability to thicken is lower than that of potato, but thanks to this addition, culinary products are softer and softer. The main direction in cooking, where it is often used, is the baking of bread and sweet confectionery. It is soluble in water, but does not form jelly-like clots.

Production method

Starch is formed as a result of the synthesis of corn under the influence of light - as a result of photosynthesis. It is a component of many plants, and serves as the main energy source for herbivores, including humans. Its main function is the accumulation of energy in the plant.

To obtain a white powder, corn seeds are poured with sulphurous acid and insisted, after which they are crushed, the core is removed and ground - this results in starch. By means of a centrifuge, it is separated from the protein, washed and dried. A slightly yellowish powder has a taste and aroma of corn.

Structure

Biochemical composition:

100% pure, unprocessed corn starch, consists of:

• Carbohydrates.
• Protein.
• Iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, zinc, selenium and copper.
• Fiber.
• Vitamin PP (nicotinic acid).
• Amino acids.

Minerals in the composition may have differences in shade, acid content, purity - this is the reason for the classification of the powder by grades:

• Amylopectin, extracted from waxy varieties of cobs.
• Higher.
• The first.

Having insignificant nutritional value, it has a high calorie content (381 kcal), which is significantly higher than that of potato powder.

Is starch good for you?

1. The substance enters the body when ingested foods of plant origin or as an additive. This is a source rich in carbohydrates, which is important for the life of the body. It stimulates an increase in muscle growth and positively affects the functioning of the nervous system. Carbohydrates in the structure of plant foods are slow, they do not pose a danger to the body and do not raise blood sugar levels. Upon receipt of them with the consumption of plant products, the risk of hypoglycemia and diseases associated with the work of the heart and blood vessels is reduced.
2. Amylopectin variety improves bowel function. As a result of the poor ability to break down by enzymes of the gastric juice, amylopectins enter the intestines, where digestion products are bound and excreted. They also prevent cholesterol absorption. By means of enzymes, it has the ability to break down to water and carbon dioxide, resulting in the generation of energy necessary for the full functioning of the organs.
3. In addition, it supports the immune system, takes part in the formation of organic acids, muscle mass. Prevents inflammatory processes in the body and saturates nerve cells.
4. Corn starch has found its application in medicine. It is added as a component of ointments, medicines, pastes, powders and cosmetic powders. As an auxiliary component, it is a part of tablets.

Indisputable harm of starch

The main benefits of the substance are evaluated in the production of industrial food products. As a substance obtained by artificial means, it has no special value for the body. The lack of dietary fiber and high calorie content in a small amount of powder - contribute to the development of obesity. The accumulation of fat on the internal organs leads to serious disturbances in the functioning of the body.

Also, starch harms people with individual intolerance to corn. A side effect is manifested in the form of allergies, asthma, rashes on the skin. It is forbidden to take with high blood coagulability and diseases of the digestive system.

As an independent component, starch is not used in food, but it is included in a large number of products familiar to the consumer basket. It can be seen spelled out on the labels of ketchup, mayonnaise and other sauces, dairy products, some types of inexpensive sausages, and confectionery. The main danger is that its amount in the recipe is too large. It is corn starch that gives the necessary consistency and viscosity. Accordingly, it is a source of high calorie content. In combination with sugars, salt and preservatives, the composition is not beneficial and is not related to a healthy diet. The only way it can be attractive is that it does not affect the taste of the finished product and is gluten-free.

In cases when it comes to modified starch, it must be understood that it is not made from GMOs. The powder got its name due to the processing method, which positively affects the quality of the output product. Compared to natural, it even gains a little in calorie content (328 kcal), also containing less protein and carbohydrates.

Corn starch in cosmetology

The scope of application, which does not carry trouble, is cosmetology. In this industry, the powder is widely applicable, and has a number of useful properties:

1. Absorbent. For this reason, it is used for the manufacture of deodorants and cosmetic powders.
2. Deodorizing.
3. Providing softness and silkiness, as it is emollient.
4. Tightening pores.
5. Establishing the work of the sebaceous glands.
6. Matting - eliminating oily sheen.
7. Improving the consistency of cosmetics. Starch has the property of lightening the texture and preventing the formation of lumps.

It is used in the production of shampoos and hair care products, decorative and children's cosmetics, in the manufacture of deodorants and talcum powder, as well as in the composition of perfumed powder.

Corn starch is universal, it is safe and easy to use, it is also well combined with various cosmetic elements. Based on this powder, masks are prepared according to home recipes.

Suitable for domestic use, used for refreshing shoes, cleaning fur products, aromatic stones and sachets.

Simple homemade beauty recipes

1. Mask "youth". Corn starch (26 g) is mixed with milk (25 g), jasmine ether (0.07 g), honey (26 g), ginger oil (0.2 g), sea salt (26 g). Apply to even layers on the surface of the skin of the face with massage technique. Stand for 15 minutes and rinse with a contrasting method under running water.
2. Shampoo "Lavender". Lavender essential oil (1, 2 g) is combined with baking soda (75 g), starch (26 g) is added. Mixing until smooth, apply massaging movements on the scalp and hair along the entire length. They are combing. Excesses are removed by means of a comb.
3. Deodorant. To obtain homemade deodorant, starch, zinc oxide and various essential oils that are pleasant to perception are combined.
4. Mask for oily skin. Mixing corn starch, zinc oxide and spirulina makes it possible to obtain a healing mask for oily skin. Adding clover and violet powder to this mask, you can prepare a unique composition for nourishing and rejuvenating dry skin.