Cornmeal, white, bolted
Category: Cereal Grains & Pasta Characteristics: Self Rising, Plain, Enriched
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
408
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 343 (84.0%) |
Protein | 40 (9.9%) |
Fat | 37 (9.1%) |
Total | 408 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [122g]
Composition
Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
---|---|
Carbohydrate | 86 (70.3%) |
Water | 15 (12.6%) |
Protein | 10 (8.3%) |
Ash | 6.6 (5.5%) |
Fat | 4.1 (3.4%) |
Total | 122 (100%) |
Serving: 1 cup [122g]
Benefits
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Rich in fiber which aids digestion and helps you feel full for longer
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Contains B vitamins like niacin, thiamine and riboflavin which are important for energy production and cell function
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Provides manganese which is important for bone health and metabolism
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Enriched with iron which is important for red blood cell formation and oxygen transportation
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Low in fat and calories making it a good choice for weight management
Risks
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High in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large amounts
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Contains little protein, vitamins, and minerals compared to whole grains
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Milling process removes germ and bran, reducing fiber and nutrients like B vitamins
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Enrichment adds back some nutrients lost in processing but not all
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High glycemic index can cause blood sugar spikes
Additional Information
Cornmeal, white, self-rising, bolted, plain, enriched is a versatile food product derived from ground corn kernels. It is commonly used in various culinary preparations, such as bread, porridge, tortillas, and cornbread. This specific type of cornmeal possesses several nutritional benefits and risks that are worth considering.
Starting with the nutritional benefits, cornmeal is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel the body's daily activities. It is also relatively low in fat, making it a suitable option for individuals aiming to maintain or lose weight. Moreover, cornmeal is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a valuable alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Cornmeal is rich in dietary fiber, particularly insoluble fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes bowel regularity. A high-fiber diet can help prevent constipation, reduce the risk of developing certain gastrointestinal disorders, and contribute to overall gut health. Additionally, fiber promotes satiety, helping to control appetite and manage weight.
This specific type of cornmeal is self-rising, meaning it contains leavening agents, such as baking powder, which allows baked goods to rise without the need for additional ingredients. While this can be convenient for baking, it is important to note that self-rising cornmeal may be higher in sodium compared to plain cornmeal. Individuals watching their sodium intake should be cautious and consider alternative options.
Enriched cornmeal refers to cornmeal that has been fortified with additional nutrients during processing. This fortification process aims to replace nutrients lost during refinement and improve the nutritional value of the final product. Enriched cornmeal is typically fortified with nutrients like iron, niacin, thiamin, and riboflavin. These nutrients play crucial roles in energy production, red blood cell formation, and maintaining overall health. Incorporating enriched cornmeal into the diet can help prevent nutrient deficiencies and support optimal bodily functions.
While cornmeal offers several nutritional benefits, there are also some risks associated with its consumption. One concern is its relatively high glycemic index (GI), which means it can cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes or those aiming to manage their blood sugar levels should consume cornmeal in moderation and pair it with other foods that have a lower GI to minimize the impact on blood glucose levels.
Furthermore, cornmeal is a refined grain, which means it undergoes processing that removes the bran and germ, stripping away some of its natural nutrients and fiber content. Compared to whole grains, such as whole wheat or brown rice, cornmeal may have a lower nutrient density. It is important to balance the consumption of refined grains with a variety of whole grains to ensure an adequate intake of essential nutrients.
In conclusion, cornmeal, white, self-rising, bolted, plain, enriched offers several nutritional benefits. It is a good source of carbohydrates, contains dietary fiber, and is gluten-free. Enriched cornmeal provides additional nutrients, contributing to a well-rounded diet. However, it is important to be mindful of the sodium content in self-rising cornmeal and the potential impact on blood sugar levels due to its high glycemic index. Balancing the consumption of cornmeal with other whole grains is recommended to ensure a diverse nutrient intake.