CHESTERFIELD, MO -- The following information was released by the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA):
With the 2010 Corn Utilization and Technology Conference quickly approaching, the time to register is now. Over the coming weeks, chairs heading the ten technical sessions will explain what attendees can expect to learn from their sessions during the conference. This week, Dr. Sakharam Patil, chair of the Health and Nutrition Technical Session, talks about the learning opportunities that his session will offer.
The Health and Nutrition Session provides a new look at the benefits of corn as a dietary supplement. Speakers will discuss the production of astaxanthin, a carotenoid of high-value as a nutracuetical and the utilization of corn in the control of obesity and its positive effect as a dietary fiber. New data on the positive impact of DDGs on heart health when used in the human diet will also be presented by Dr. Rajat Sethi of Texas AandM University.
'Corn is the most abundant source of carbohydrates. By enhancing these carbohydrates by controlling the rate of energy release, we can greatly benefit human health and decrease diseases caused, in part, by quick spikes in energy release,' said Dr. Patil. 'Additionally, corn can be better utilized as a source of dietary fiber thus benefitting digestive tract health.'
The session will also look not only at improving current corn uses but also at possible additional uses that could further improve human nutrition. 'Currently, corn is mainly viewed as a source of dietary fiber and carbohydrates,' said Dr. Patil. 'While these uses are both still incredibly important, exciting new uses for corn as a nutraceutical are currently in development and could soon expand the already wide range of nutritional benefits that the crop can add to human diets.'
In addition to exploring these and other human health topics, such as obesity, the CUTC will look at corn breeding and genetics, water usage and agriculture and other timely topics. Held in Atlanta, Ga. June 7 through 9, the 2010 Corn Utilization and Technology conference is the country's premier corn technology conference.
