Here’s a tough reality check: Corn isn’t as healthy as you might think! It can cause inflammation and is usually heavily processed. Plus, factory farms use it to fatten up cows and pigs really fast. That’s all there is to it. By learning more about how corn sneaks into your meals and the potential harm it can cause, you’ll be in a better position to make informed choices about whether or not to include it in your diet.
Corn Can Be Highly Inflammatory
Even though corn is often seen as a healthy option, it can actually lead to a leaky gut, similar to gluten. This happens because the protein found in corn can resemble gluten to many people’s bodies, causing them to react to it. For those who are aware of their gluten intolerance, this cross-reaction can be incredibly frustrating, especially since society often promotes corn products as great alternatives to gluten-filled foods. You might think you’re making a smart choice by using corn tortillas for gluten-free tacos, but that doesn’t really help with the immune response. Eventually, you might find yourself asking, “Why do I still have migraines?” Gluten is just one of many substances that can mimic our own body tissues and trigger autoimmune issues. Molecular mimicry is just one aspect of the problem with corn.
Corn Is Usually Genetically Modified
Corn is the most widely cultivated crop in the United States, with over 90% of it being genetically modified. If you’re purchasing processed foods, around 75% of them contain some form of corn derivative, like high fructose corn syrup or cornstarch. Additionally, cows raised on factory farms are often fed GMO corn, which eventually makes its way into our diets. The safety of genetically modified organisms (GMO) in our food is a hot topic of discussion.
A long-term study published in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology in August 2012 examined rats over two years and found various health issues, including hormone imbalances and diseases affecting the liver and kidneys. Female rats that consumed GMO corn (specifically Roundup Ready) or foods treated with Roundup developed large mammary tumors significantly more often than those in the control group, with the pituitary gland being the second most affected organ.
Male rats in the GMO corn and Roundup group showed liver problems at rates 2.5 to 5.5 times higher than the control group, along with four times as many large tumors. The study also revealed serious kidney abnormalities, with 76% of the altered health parameters linked to kidney issues. There’s an ongoing debate among food companies, biotech firms, health advocates, doctors, and bloggers regarding the safety and long-term impacts of GMO foods. It’s estimated that 88% of all corn grown in the U.S. is genetically modified.
Corn Is High in Lectin
Corn contains high levels of toxic lectins, which are difficult to digest and can harm the gut lining. These lectins can also activate the immune system, potentially leading to more serious issues. Lectins are a type of anti-nutrient, primarily found in legumes and grains, and they can have some pretty negative effects on our health. Humans struggle to digest lectins, and they often pass through our digestive system without breaking down.
However, if someone has a compromised digestive system due to conditions like Crohn’s disease or other inflammatory issues, lectins can enter the bloodstream. This is where they can start causing problems. Since lectins can provoke an immune response, they have been associated with autoimmune inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and type 1 diabetes.
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