A second heart-healthy diet also had less impact on total and LDL cholesterol in the overweight men. High triglycerides are associated with reduced glucose tolerance, the earliest stage of diabetes. And evidence is mounting that high trigylcerides independently increase risk of heart disease, say the researchers. That could benefit not only people in developing countries where tortillas are a part of nearly every meal, but also people in developed countries who don't get enough iron. The unique corn is low in phytic acid, or phytate.
Phytic acid is thought to reduce the body's ability to use iron and certain other nutrients.
The ARS corn lines have up to about 66 percent less phytic acid that most common varieties. The research is perhaps best known for its environmental benefits. The corn thus helps reduce the load of unused phosphorus that could leach into rivers and streams, perhaps contributing to algal blooms and fish kills. ARS has patented the corn and licensed it to three companies. A new study to define the antioxidant needs of people with spinal cord injuries should also help clarify the nutrient requirements of other, less severely injured individuals.