Are Blue Corn Chips Better For You
When it comes to snacking, it is essential to make the right choices to ensure you are keeping up with a healthy lifestyle. Corn chips are one of the most popular snacks among people of all ages. But are all types of corn chips good for you? In recent years, blue corn chips have become a popular choice for health enthusiasts. Let's explore if blue corn chips are better for you than regular corn chips.
What are Blue Corn Chips?
Blue corn chips are made from blue corn. The kernels of the blue corn are denser and contain more antioxidants than regular yellow corn. The blue color comes from anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants known for their health benefits. These antioxidants are also found in red wine and blueberries.
Blue corn chips are made using a nixtamalization process where the kernels are soaked in an alkaline solution, which helps in breaking down the hard outer shell of the kernel. The corn is then ground to make a masa dough, which is used to make tortillas and chips.
Nutritional Value of Blue Corn Chips
Blue corn chips are a healthier option compared to regular corn chips. Blue corn chips have a lower glycemic index, which means they are digested slower, leading to a more sustained release of energy. This can help prevent spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels.
Blue corn chips also contain more fiber than regular corn chips. Fiber helps in digestion, keeps you full for a longer period, and regulates blood sugar levels. Blue corn chips also have a higher protein content than regular corn chips.
Blue corn chips are a good source of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and iron. Blue corn chips also contain fewer calories and less fat than regular corn chips.
Are Regular Corn Chips Bad for You?
Regular corn chips are not necessarily bad for you, but they are not as healthy as blue corn chips. Regular corn chips are made from yellow corn or white corn and are processed in a similar way as blue corn chips.
Regular corn chips have a higher glycemic index, which means they are digested quickly, leading to a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. This spike can leave you feeling hungry soon after eating.
Regular corn chips also contain less fiber than blue corn chips. This can result in poor digestion and can lead to constipation. Regular corn chips are also higher in calories and fat than blue corn chips.
Conclusion
Blue corn chips are a healthier option compared to regular corn chips. Blue corn chips contain more antioxidants, fiber, protein, and fewer calories and fat than regular corn chips. Blue corn chips are also a good source of minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, and iron. Regular corn chips, on the other hand, have a higher glycemic index, less fiber, and more calories and fat. So, it is better to opt for blue corn chips when it comes to snacking.