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What is Waxy Maize Starch?

Waxy maize starch is a corn starch used by athletes to boost energy. It contains amylopectin, an insoluble component of starch that has a high molecular weight and branched structure. Waxy maize does not contain any amylose starch molecules, making it unique compared to other maize varieties that contain both amylopectin and amylose.

Before World War II, tapioca was the main source of starch in the United States. During that time, Japan cut the supply lines of the United States which forced processors to use waxy maize. Amylopectin is now mainly used in food products, but it's also used in the textile, paper, and nutrition industries.

The history of waxy maize is unknown, however it was mentioned in the archives of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) which date back to 1908. A Presbyterian missionary in Shanghai sent a sample of waxy maize seeds to the United States, calling it a "peculiar kind of corn that was much more glutinous than other varieties." The seeds were planted near Washington D.C. during that year and photographs of the plants were published in a USDA bulletin issued in December the following year. In 2002, over 1 million tons of waxy maize was produced in the United States, which represented only 0.5% of total maize production.

Health Benefits of Waxy Maize Starch

As a dietary supplement, waxy maize has benefits for athletes when taken before, during and after a workout.

Waxy maize is considered a complex carbohydrate that is quickly digested and absorbed into the blood stream and subsequently to muscle. Due to its fast digestion and absorption rate in the body, waxy maize remains a complex long chain carbohydrate as it enters the small intestine. It's easily assimilated by muscle tissue then converted into glycogen, which can then provide a source of glucose for energy even after working out and throughout the day.

Because the amylopectin found in waxy maize is relatively easy to gelatinize to produce a viscous paste, it is used to improve stability, texture and uniformity in various food products. It is especially suitable for thickening fruit pies and improves creaminess and smoothness of canned food and dairy products.

It is also widely used as the starting material for producing maltodextrin, a polysaccharide food additive common in natural sodas and candy, because of improved water solubility after drying and greater solution clarity and stability.

When waxy maize gelatinizes and produces a viscous paste, it has a sticky surface. This makes it a major component in adhesives used for bottle labels, gummed tapes and envelope adhesives.

Purity and Concentration of Waxy Maize Starch

Waxy maize starch is a standardized product, meaning it is standardized to contain more than 90% amylopectin. This product contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents.

Suggested Use of Waxy Maize Starch

The suggested use of waxy maize starch is 35 grams before, during and after training for best results. A 1/4 cup serving yields 35 grams. If engaging in intensive activity of two hours or more, this amount may be doubled. Individual needs vary.

Potential Side Effects of Waxy Maize Starch

Waxy maize starch is safe at suggested serving sizes. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing.

Preparation and Solubility of Waxy Maize Starch

Waxy maize is a white powder that is odorless and tasteless. It may be mixed into water or fruit juice and should be consumed immediately because the mixture can thicken.

References and Further Research

Wikipedia: Waxy Corn

Weighttraining.com: Waxy Maize

Ohio State University: Specialty Corns

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates herbal and other dietary supplements differently than conventional medicines. The standards for supplements are found in the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), a federal law that defines dietary supplements and sets product-label­ing standards and health claim limits. To learn more about DSHEA, visit the FDA Web site.