Whole grain corn chips: a healthier alternative to your snack cravings
What To Know
- Whole grain corn chips are a good source of fiber and other nutrients, and they may help to reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
- If you want to enjoy the taste of whole grain corn chips without the added sodium and calories, you can make your own at home.
- Refined corn chips are lower in fiber and nutrients, and they’re higher in calories than whole grain corn chips.
Corn chips are a popular snack enjoyed by people of all ages. But are they really as healthy as they seem? The answer to that question depends on the type of corn chips you’re eating.
The Whole Grain Question
Whole grains are a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied. They also contain other nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
So, are corn chips whole grain? The answer is… it depends. Some corn chips are made with whole grain corn, while others are made with refined cornmeal. Refined cornmeal has been stripped of its bran and germ, which are the parts of the kernel that contain most of the fiber and nutrients.
How to Identify Whole Grain Corn Chips
If you’re looking for whole grain corn chips, look for the words “whole grain” on the ingredient list. You can also look for the Whole Grain Stamp, which is a symbol that indicates that the product contains at least 51% whole grains.
The Benefits of Whole Grain Corn Chips
Whole grain corn chips offer a number of benefits, including:
- They’re a good source of fiber. Fiber can help you feel full and satisfied, and it can also help to regulate your digestive system.
- They contain other nutrients. Whole grain corn chips contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
- They may help to reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Eating whole grains has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
The Drawbacks of Whole Grain Corn Chips
Whole grain corn chips are not without their drawbacks. One potential drawback is that they can be high in sodium. Sodium is an essential nutrient, but too much sodium can raise your blood pressure.
Another potential drawback is that whole grain corn chips can be high in calories. A single serving of corn chips can contain over 150 calories.
Refined Corn Chips
Refined corn chips are made with refined cornmeal, which has been stripped of its bran and germ. This process removes most of the fiber and nutrients from the cornmeal.
As a result, refined corn chips are less healthy than whole grain corn chips. They’re lower in fiber and nutrients, and they’re higher in calories.
Which Type of Corn Chips Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for a healthy snack, choose whole grain corn chips over refined corn chips. Whole grain corn chips are a good source of fiber and other nutrients, and they may help to reduce your risk of chronic diseases.
If you’re watching your sodium or calorie intake, be sure to read the nutrition label carefully before you eat corn chips.
How to Make Your Own Whole Grain Corn Chips
If you want to enjoy the taste of whole grain corn chips without the added sodium and calories, you can make your own at home. Here’s a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole grain cornmeal
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, water, and salt (if using).
4. Stir until the dough comes together.
5. Roll out the dough to a thin sheet on a lightly floured surface.
6. Cut the dough into triangles or squares.
7. Place the corn chips on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the corn chips are golden brown.
9. Let the corn chips cool before serving.
Popular Questions
Q: Are all corn chips made with whole grain corn?
A: No, some corn chips are made with refined cornmeal, which has been stripped of its bran and germ.
Q: What are the benefits of eating whole grain corn chips?
A: Whole grain corn chips are a good source of fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. They also contain other nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Q: What are the drawbacks of eating refined corn chips?
A: Refined corn chips are lower in fiber and nutrients, and they’re higher in calories than whole grain corn chips.
Q: How can I tell if corn chips are whole grain?
A: Look for the words “whole grain” on the ingredient list. You can also look for the Whole Grain Stamp, which is a symbol that indicates that the product contains at least 51% whole grains.
Q: Can I make my own whole grain corn chips?
A: Yes, you can make your own whole grain corn chips at home with a few simple ingredients.