Corn (Zea mays) as a Nutrient Source and Diet: A Review

Maize is also known as corn; it is a cereal. It is a member of Poaceae family which is a grass family. Maize originated 55 to 70 million year ago in central America. By seeing phylogenetic tree of grass species related to maize, it can be conclude that there is no direct ancestor of maize. The closest ancestor of maize are teosintes. Maize contains many phytochemical-like phystosterols, carotenoids and many other phenolic compounds. Maize also helps while reliving anti-HIV activity; this takes place due to the presence of Galanthus Nivalis Agglutinin (GNA) lectin. Maize is the great source of essential fatty assets. The maize cob and the root leaves of it are used to treat problem related to bladder, Nausea, vomiting. The endosperm of maize contains an alcohol solution prolamine called Zein, Which has a great role in pharmaceutical industry. Maize also contains resistant starch which reduces cancer-cecal, atherosclerosis and obesity related issues.