Press slightly on a kernel to see if they are milky. Keep fresh corn refrigerated, and use within a few days. And step aside, carrots. Corn may be good for our eyes, according to research published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology in 1998. Lutein and zeaxanthin, members of the carotenoid pigment family, have been shown to decrease the risk for macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness among the elderly.
Corn has the highest percentage of lutein among plant sources and also contains zeaxanthin.
Other good sources of these pigments include spinach, orange juice, kiwi, zucchini and grapes. Corn can be prepared in many ways. Fresh ears of corn can be boiled 3 to 4 minutes in water. Ears also can be microwaved about 3 minutes on high power or according to manufacturer s directions. To add a smoky flavor, soak ears in cold water for 10 minutes and grill about 4 inches from the heat source for about 15-20 minutes.