While pre-Columbian farmers might not have understood huitlacoche’s complex nutritional value, they no doubt saw the results of adding the fungus to their diets. Ongoing research demonstrates that huitlacoche is very, very good for you.
Huitlacoche is very high in fiber and protein. In fact, it has more than four times as much protein as a similar amount of corn and contains pretty much all amino acids, which are necessary for synthesizing proteins and nitrogen in our bodies.
Combined with corn in, say, a corn tortilla, huitlacoche is a complete protein. It’s convenient, too. Since huitlacoche already grows on corn, you’re getting a complete plant protein from a single source. There’s also evidence that huitlacoche is high in antioxidant compounds, and can help people maintain healthy levels of cholesterol. Finally, huitlacoche has been shown to contain prebiotic compounds that contain anti-diabetic qualities, which can help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and help them manage their diabetes.