Corn
What is Corn?
Corn is considered both a grain and a starchy vegetable, depending on when it is harvested. Corn contains higher levels of pro-inflammatory omega-6s, higher levels of starch, and has a tendency to be genetically modified Because of these reasons, avoidance of corn may be indicated for some children with ASD.
When harvested early, it’s a vegetable, and when it’s harvested when fully mature, it’s a grain. Nutrient content will vary between both. [6]
Vegetable
Fresh corn is harvested when it is soft and has kernels full of liquid. Fresh corn is considered a starchy vegetable. It is often eaten on the cob, as a side dish, or mixed with other vegetables.
Grain
Corn that is harvested when fully mature and dry is considered a grain. It can be milled into cornmeal and used in foods like corn tortillas and cornbread.
Popcorn is also harvested when mature, and is considered to be a whole grain.
Corn is one of the three crops (including cotton and soybeans) that is often grown with higher levels of pesticides or is genetically modified to produce insecticides (also known as Bt corn). There is a growing number of research studies that show glyphosate can increase dysbiosis and contribute to the development of neurological conditions. [7]
Corn oil contains higher levels of omega-6, an inflammatory fatty acid, than most grains. Focus should be placed on reducing omega-6s in the diet and increasing anti-inflammatory fatty acids, like omega-3s and 9s.
An imbalance of omega-6 and omega-3 levels can increase the risk of obesity. [8]
However, some research shows that consumption of whole grain corn can lower risk of obesity and can improve digestive health [3].
Children with epilepsy have abnormal ratios of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid serum levels, which is associated with impaired cognitive function in these children. [9]
Corn can be found in prescription medication, so it is important if someone has a corn allergy to ask their doctor for approval before taking any medications. [2]
In a case study of an 8-year-old boy with autism, results showed that he had increasing symptoms (hyperactivity, uncontrolled laughter, and disruptive behaviors) after consuming wheat, corn, tomatoes, sugar, mushrooms, and dairy products. [10]
Many people think that corn is strictly starch, but it actually does contain many nutrients, phytochemicals, and fiber. [3]
Nutrient Breakdown
Vitamin and mineral content of corn varies depending on corn type [1]. For example, popcorn contains a higher number of minerals and sweet corn has a higher vitamin content. Overall, corn generally contains:
Omega-6 Fatty Acids (especially concentrated in corn oil)
Foods Containing Corn
Corn chips
Corn tortillas
Cereals
Whiskey
Maize
Corn Starch
Hominy
Corn oil/vegetable oil
Margarine
Erythritol
Ascorbic Acid (vitamin C)
Other Names for Corn Include:
Dextrins
Fructose of crystalline fructose
Ethanol
Zein
Sorbitol
Maltodextrins
Corn Alternatives
Corn chips/tortilla alternatives
Corn syrup alternatives
Honey
Date syrup
Rice syrup
Corn starch alternatives
Potato starch
Arrowroot powder
Tapioca powder
Vinegar
Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar instead of corn-based vinegar
TIP: check the bottle of any prescriptions and ensure that it says corn-free and always double check with your physician.
Food Reactions
The body can respond to foods in many different ways including food allergies, food sensitivities, or food intolerances. If you suspect a food reaction, you can either choose to avoid the food or seek food reaction testing. Click here more information on the difference in types of food reactions and testing options.
DISCLAIMER: Always consult with your pediatrician and/or your Registered Dietitian to help you test for a food reaction or to aid you in making individualized dietary changes.
Corn & Autism in the Research
The research on autism and corn is extremely lacking. Since corn has a higher risk of containing glyphosate, being geneticaly modified, and high levels of starches, avoiding corn may be beneficial for some kids with ASD.
Case Study of a Boy with ASD Reacts to Corn
After using an elimination diet of sorts, an 8-year-old boy with autism had increasing symptoms (hyperactivity, uncontrolled laughter, and disruptive behaviors) after consuming foods such as wheat, corn, tomatoes, sugar, mushrooms, and dairy products. [10]
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Descripti[1] Arnarson A. Corn 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/corn#nutrients. Published 2020. Accessed August 18, 2020.
[2] Corn-Free Diet - Pediatric Nutrition - Golisano Children's Hospital - University of Rochester Medical Center. Urmc.rochester.edu. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/childrens-hospital/nutrition/corn-free.aspx. Published 2020. Accessed August 19, 2020.
[3] Siyuan S, Tong L, Liu R. Corn phytochemicals and their health benefits. Food Science and Human Wellness. 2018;7(3):185-195. doi:10.1016/j.fshw.2018.09.003
[6] Is corn a grain or a vegetable? USDA Website. Accessed 18 September 2020. https://ask.usda.gov/s/article/Is-corn-a-grain-or-a-vegetable
[7] Rueda-Ruzafa L, Cruz F, Roman P, Cardona D. Gut microbiota and neurological effects of glyphosate. Neurotoxicology. 2019;75:1-8. doi:10.1016/j.neuro.2019.08.006
[8] Simopoulos AP. An Increase in the Omega-6/Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ratio Increases the Risk for Obesity. Nutrients. 2016;8(3):128. Published 2016 Mar 2. doi:10.3390/nu8030128
[9] Bahagat KA, Elhady M, Aziz AA, Youness ER, Zakzok E. Cociente omega-6/omega-3 y cognición en niños con epilepsia [Omega-6/omega-3 ratio and cognition in children with epilepsy]. An Pediatr (Barc). 2019;91(2):88-95. doi:10.1016/j.anpedi.2018.07.015
[10] O'Banion D, Armstrong B, Cummings RA, Stange J. Disruptive behavior: a dietary approach. J Autism Child Schizophr. 1978;8(3):325-337. doi:10.1007/BF01539635on text goes here
