What dietary component should sweet corn be paired with to ensure better absorption of fat-soluble pigments like lutein and zeaxanthin?
Answer
A small amount of healthy dietary fat.
Lutein and zeaxanthin, the beneficial carotenoids responsible for much of corn's eye-protective qualities, are fat-soluble compounds. This characteristic means they require the presence of dietary fat to be effectively dissolved, transported, and subsequently absorbed by the body's systems. To maximize the bioavailability of these pigments, the optimal strategy is to consume the sweet corn serving alongside a source of fat. Examples include adding a light drizzle of olive oil or a small amount of butter. This fat acts as an essential carrier, facilitating the uptake of these protective compounds into the bloodstream for utilization.
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