Can people with high blood sugar eat sweet corn?

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
If blood sugar is high, sweet corn can be consumed in moderation. Regular sweet corn, despite its sweet taste, is also high in cellulose. The cellulose in regular sweet corn is of a special type that is not easily absorbed into the bloodstream; most of it passes through the intestines and is excreted after consumption. Therefore, eating regular sweet corn has little impact on blood glucose levels. Compared to white rice, corn contains less sugar.

There are many causes of high blood sugar, and once detected, active treatment is necessary. So, can people with high blood sugar eat sweet corn?

Can People with High Blood Sugar Eat Sweet Corn?

Individuals with high blood sugar can consume sweet corn in moderation. If the sweet corn is regular sweet corn, despite its sweet taste, it is also rich in dietary fiber. The fiber in regular sweet corn has unique properties—it is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream, and most of it passes through the digestive tract and is excreted. Therefore, eating regular sweet corn has little impact on blood glucose levels. However, if corn is processed into refined grains, it may cause a rise in blood sugar. Glutinous corn (sticky corn) is not recommended. It contains high levels of both fiber and starch, but unlike regular corn, its fiber is easily absorbed, and its starch content can reach 50%–70%, significantly increasing blood glucose. Thus, diabetic patients are generally advised against consuming glutinous corn, although regular sweet corn is usually acceptable. When consuming sweet corn, it's important to appropriately reduce the intake of other staple foods.

Compared to regular white rice, corn has a lower sugar content and significantly higher levels of crude fiber, both of which are beneficial for blood glucose control. Regular consumption of corn may also help prevent diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and coronary heart disease. However, corn contains a relatively high amount of starch—especially glutinous and sweet corn—which is more easily digested and absorbed, potentially leading to elevated blood sugar. Therefore, individuals with high blood sugar should preferably choose mature (older) corn, and corn consumption should be moderate.

People with high blood sugar should limit their intake of fried foods such as meatballs, fried dough sticks (youtiao), stir-fried noodles, and instant noodles in daily life. We hope this answer has been helpful to you. Wishing you a happy and healthy life!

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