Does replacing rice with corn help lose weight?

Answer:

Corn, abundant in vitamins B and C, minerals, and fiber, offers substantial nutritional benefits and serves as a reliable food for weight loss. It promotes satiety quickly and reduces the urge for snacking. Its high fiber content is beneficial for health, aiding in fat reduction, alleviating constipation, and enhancing digestion. Corn also supports immune function, helps regulate blood sugar, and is suitable for those with diabetes.

However, excessive corn consumption can be detrimental to health. Diabetics should moderate their corn intake as its high carbohydrate content can lead to significant blood sugar spikes.

Pile of sweet corns. Illustration photo by Pexels

Individuals with digestive issues should also limit their corn consumption due to its high fiber content, which can cause bloating, discomfort, and digestive difficulties. It is advised to eat only one ear of corn per day.

Elderly people, young children, and those with weak digestive systems should avoid frequent corn consumption, as it may strain the digestive system.

It is not advised to entirely replace rice with corn but rather to diversify your diet. Effective weight loss involves controlling portion sizes, balancing proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, and engaging in regular physical activity. Additionally, adequate hydration and snacking only on a doctor’s recommendation are crucial.

Dr. Bui Dac Sang

Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Oriental Traditional Medicine Association of Hanoi