How much does corn starch cost (average price per 1 kg)?

Moscow and Moscow region.

Corn starch- This is a white, not particularly transparent paste with a low degree of viscosity. The smell and taste of starch are characteristic of grain. As a result of drying, it becomes a free-flowing substance, a white powder with a subtle yellow tint. As for its chemical composition, corn starch is characterized by an excessively low content of substances such as protein and ash. The main properties of corn starch include increased swelling ability even in cold water. Quite interestingly, compared to the original product, the swollen starch does not change at the chemical level.

Many people are interested in the question of how corn starch is obtained. The essence of the process is as follows: in corn grains, starch is bound together using proteins, to dissolve which the corn is soaked in a solution of sulfurous acid. After this, the grain is crushed and the embryo is released. Then the cereal is further crushed, during which starch milk is released. Interestingly, the starch is separated from the insoluble protein in huge centrifuges and then thoroughly washed and dried to produce a dry food product. The calorie content of corn starch is slightly higher and amounts to 343 kcal per 100 grams.

In the food industry, corn starch is used in the meat, dairy and baking industries, in the production of ketchup and mayonnaise. Housewives add this product when making various sauces and puddings, as well as pie fillings. In cases where the effect of gluten needs to be weakened, giving special tenderness and greater softness to the finished product, this powder comes in handy. In the confectionery industry, when making soft candies, overdried starch is indispensable, since it has low humidity.

The benefits of corn starch

The benefits of corn starch can be seen not only in cooking, but also in the field of medicine. It is an important ingredient in the manufacture of powders, ointments, potions, cosmetic powders, various pastes and products used to treat skin diseases.

In addition, eating foods with small amounts of this bulk substance can have a positive effect on human health. The benefits of corn starch are due to its ability to activate the formation of muscle mass and nourish nerve cells.

Harm of corn starch

The harm of corn starch can be traced in the presence of individual intolerance to the original product, that is, corn, but this is extremely rare. Manifests itself in the form of allergic reactions, asthma and skin rashes.

Calorie content of corn starch 343 kcal

Energy value of corn starch (Ratio of proteins, fats, carbohydrates - bju):

: 1 g (~4 kcal)
: 0.6 g (~5 kcal)
: 83.5 g (~334 kcal)

Energy ratio (b|w|y): 1%|2%|97%

Most modern housewives are accustomed to using potato starch, but they do not think about the fact that there is an alternative option - corn starch.

This product is more popular in Western European countries, but is now becoming in demand here too.

Unusual properties, nutritional value, high degree of applicability, benefits for the body - have made corn starch one of the favorite ingredients of bakers and cooks.

True, there are also manufacturers, unfortunately, who abuse the use of corn starch, and its excess in food can harm the body.

What is the difference between corn starch and potato starch?

Corn starch is less viscous and does not “squeak” when rolled in a bag, like potato starch. When added to a dish, it does not “clog” it, maintains a delicate texture, and makes baked goods porous and at the same time dense, not like a sponge.

Today, such starch is often used in the production of sausages as a moisture-binding substance, which makes the product cheaper.

But a large amount of corn starch is harmful to the body, especially when combined with other “natural” ingredients that are used to flavor sausages.

How is corn starch made?

The production of corn starch is a complex chain of operations for processing corn grain.

First, grain of a certain maturity is separated from the base, then soaked for a while in a solution of sulfurous acid so that the protein that binds starch breaks down and the starchy substances are released.

Then the grain is crushed and passed through a special centrifuge, which allows you to sift out the protein undissolved by acid and separate pure starch.

The resulting mass is removed from toxic components, washed, dried and sent for packaging for sale.

What benefits can you get from cornstarch?

Starch is not rich in its chemical composition. It consists of more than 90% complex carbohydrates, and a small part of ash components, protein, and fats. And, nevertheless, it has high benefits for the body.

1. Promotes muscle growth, therefore, corn starch is useful to eat for athletes, weightlifters and exhausted people who require recovery.

2. The product is a valuable source of slow carbohydrates, which, even in small doses, quickly and for a long time saturate, which is indispensable for increased physical activity.

3. It is a safe binding ingredient in pharmacy, used for the production of powders and ointments.

4. Successfully replaces talc in the treatment of diaper rash in children and adults.

5. Corn starch is widely used in cosmetology - a harmless substance for removing excess sweat, sebum, and other derivatives of external secretion organs.

6. It has the property of binding scattered fragments of digested and undigested food in the intestines, removing them from the body - improves peristalsis, promotes timely and complete emptying.

7. Nourishes nerve cells.

8. Corn starch does not raise sugar, so it is recommended for use by diabetics.

9. There is a recipe based on corn starch to lower blood pressure: dilute a tablespoon (20 g) of starch in 120 ml of water, drink every day for two weeks in a row in the morning before meals.

10. If the gastrointestinal tract is disrupted, brew a spoonful of starch with half a glass of boiling water, add 2 drops of iodine, cool and drink.

11. Compresses with corn starch They cope well with bruises and wounds: 2 tablespoons of powder, pour 1 spoon of boiling water, stir and apply to the sore spot, hold until it hardens.

12. The product will help relieve bladder inflammation, if you take a suspension of 30 g of starch and 300 ml of water three times a day for a week.

13. Corn starch is an ideal product for external use.

As a face mask, it has an amazing Botox effect, smooths out wrinkles, cleanses clogged pores, refreshes aging skin, and increases its elasticity.

14. Amylopectin, a type of corn starch produced from waxy corn, interferes with the absorption of cholesterol.

In general, starch has an enveloping, soothing, wound-healing effect, nourishes and maintains the hydrobalance of the skin.

What are the harms of corn starch?

Starch is high in calories and is contraindicated for obesity.

Excess corn starch in the diet (especially if it is used in sausages and creams) causes metabolic disorders.

Allergic reactions.

Individual intolerance.

Don't Be Afraid of "Modified" Cornstarch. Despite the alarming name, it is only an improved version of regular starch - cleaner, more active and less caloric.

Corn starch is a white powder extracted from the cob of corn. Housewives add it to foods to hold ingredients together. Its ability to thicken is lower than that of potato, but thanks to this additive, culinary products are more tender and softer. The main direction in cooking, where it is often used, is baking bread and sweet confectionery. It is soluble in water, but does not form jelly-like clots.

Method of obtaining

Starch is formed as a result of the synthesis of corn under the influence of light - as a result of photosynthesis. It is a component of many plants, and serves as the main energy source for herbivores, including humans. Its main function is to accumulate energy in the plant.

To obtain white powder, corn seeds are poured with sulfurous acid and infused, after which they are crushed, the kernel is removed and ground - this is how starch is obtained. Using a centrifuge, it is separated from the protein, washed and dried. The slightly yellowish powder has the taste and aroma of corn.

Compound

Biochemical composition:

100% pure, unprocessed corn starch, consists of:

Carbohydrates.
Belkov.
Iron, magnesium, manganese, sodium, zinc, selenium and copper.
Fiber.
Vitamin PP (nicotinic acid).
Amino acids.

Minerals in the composition may differ in shade, acid content, purity - this is the reason for classifying the powder into grades:

Amylopectin, obtained from waxy varieties of cobs.
Higher.
First.

Having little nutritional value, it has a high calorie content (381 kcal), which is significantly higher than that of potato powder.

Is starch healthy?

The substance enters the body when consumed in foods of plant origin or as a supplement. This is a source rich in carbohydrates, which is very important for the functioning of the body. It stimulates increased muscle growth and has a positive effect on the functioning of the nervous system. Carbohydrates in the structure of plant foods are slow, they do not pose a danger to the body and do not raise blood sugar levels. When obtained through the consumption of products of plant origin, the threat of hypoglycemia and diseases associated with the functioning of the heart and blood vessels is reduced.
Amylopectin variety improves intestinal function. As a result of poor ability to be broken down by gastric juice enzymes, amylopectins enter the intestines, where they bind digestive products and remove them. They also prevent the absorption of cholesterol. Through enzymes, it has the ability to break down into water and carbon dioxide, resulting in the formation of energy necessary for the full functioning of organs.
In addition, it supports the immune system, takes part in the formation of organic acids and muscle mass. Prevents inflammatory processes in the body and nourishes nerve cells.
Corn starch has found its use in medicine. It is added as a component of ointments, mixtures, pastes, powders and cosmetic powders. As an auxiliary component it is included in the tablets.

The undeniable harm of starch

The main benefits of the substance are assessed in the production of industrial food products. As a substance obtained artificially, it has no particular value for the body. The lack of dietary fiber and high calorie content in a small amount of powder contribute to the development of obesity. The accumulation of fat on internal organs leads to serious disruptions in the functioning of the body.

Starch also harms people with individual intolerance to corn. The side effect manifests itself in the form of allergies, asthma, and skin rashes. Prohibited for use in cases of high blood clotting and diseases of the digestive system.

Starch is not used as an independent component in food, but it is included in a large number of products familiar to the consumer basket. It can be seen listed on the labels of ketchups, mayonnaise and other sauces, dairy products, some types of inexpensive sausages, and confectionery products. The main danger is that the amount in the recipe is too large. It is corn starch that gives the necessary consistency and viscosity. Accordingly, it is a source of high calorie content. In combination with sugars, salt and preservatives, the composition is not beneficial and is not related to a healthy diet. The only thing that makes it attractive is that it does not affect the taste of the finished product and is gluten-free.

When it comes to modified starch, it is important to understand that it is not made from GMOs. The powder got its name due to the processing method, which has a positive effect on the quality of the final product. Compared to natural, it even has a slight advantage in calorie content (328 kcal), and it also contains less proteins and carbohydrates.

The area of application that does not cause trouble is cosmetology. The powder is widely used in this industry and has a number of useful properties:

Absorbent. It is for this reason that it is used to make deodorants and cosmetic powders.
Deodorizing.
Provides softness and silkiness, as it is an emollient.
Tightens pores.
Improves the functioning of the sebaceous glands.
Mattifying - eliminating oily shine.
Improving the consistency of cosmetic products. Starch has the inherent property of imparting a light texture and preventing the formation of lumps.

It is used in the production of shampoos and hair care products, decorative and children's cosmetics, in the production of deodorants and talcs, and it is also found in perfumed powder.

Corn starch is universal, it is safe and easy to use, and it also combines well with various cosmetic elements. Homemade masks are prepared using this powder.

Suitable for household purposes, used for refreshing shoes, cleaning fur products, aroma stones and sachets.

Simple homemade beauty recipes

“Youth” mask. Corn starch (26 g) is mixed with milk (25 g), jasmine essential oil (0.07 g), honey (26 g), ginger oil (0.2 g), sea salt (26 g). Apply evenly to the surface of the facial skin using a massage technique. Leave for 15 minutes and wash off using the contrast method with running water.
Shampoo "Lavender". Lavender essential oil (1.2 g) is combined with baking soda (75 g), starch (26 g) is added. After mixing until smooth, apply with massaging movements to the scalp and hair along the entire length. They are combing. Excess is removed using a comb.
Deodorant. To obtain a homemade deodorant, combine starch, zinc oxide and various essential oils that are pleasant to the senses.
Mask for oily skin. Mixing cornstarch, zinc oxide and spirulina creates a healing mask for oily skin. By adding sweet clover and violet powder to this mask, you can prepare a unique composition for nourishing and rejuvenating dry skin.

In culinary recipes and many finished products you can find a substance such as corn starch. It is used as a thickener when flour or potato starch cannot be used. Corn has special properties and qualities. But there has been heated debate about its effect on the human body for several years. Let's try to figure out what the benefits and harms of corn starch are.

What is starch?

Starch is essentially an energy accumulator for plants. During the process of photosynthesis, glucose is formed, which becomes the building material for this substance. It is starch, which is part of many plants, that is the main source of energy for all herbivores, which includes humans. Corn starch is a unique nutritional element that is used as a food additive in the production of confectionery and bakery products.

It is much softer than potato, it can dissolve even in cold water, but it does not allow you to achieve a jelly-like consistency. Therefore, such a powder is completely unsuitable for sausage production and for making jelly. But confectionery creams, dough and soft candies on it turn out to be very tender.

Mineral composition

In its pure form without additional processing, corn starch contains:

Carbohydrates – 37% of the daily value. Of 100 grams of this product, 91g are carbohydrates, so it is very nutritious;
Proteins – 0.6%;
Minerals: iron, manganese, zinc, copper, selenium, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium. All minerals are included in the composition in small quantities, not exceeding 5% of the daily requirement.

The mineral composition may differ in different varieties. Based on color, purity, acid and ash content, there are three main varieties:

Amylopectin, which is obtained only from waxy corn;
Higher;
First.

The calorie content is 381 kcal, higher than potato (300 kcal). With absolutely insignificant nutritional value, corn starch has a very high calorie content, which has given rise to controversy about its benefits to humans.

Is there any benefit?

Regardless of how starch enters the body - naturally along with plant foods or as a supplement - it is a valuable source of carbohydrates, without which life is impossible. Among other things, it helps to build muscle mass and normalize the functioning of the nervous system.

Since the carbohydrates in this plant substance are slow or heavy, they do not cause a sharp rise in blood sugar, which means they are completely safe for people with diabetes. Using starch as a source of carbohydrates reduces the risk of hypoglycemia and cardiovascular diseases.

The amylopectin variety deserves special attention. Amylopectins are very poorly broken down by gastric juice enzymes, so they enter the intestines almost unchanged, where they help bind all digestive products and remove them. Amylopectin starch stimulates intestinal activity, aids digestion and prevents the absorption of cholesterol.

Great harm

With all these benefits, the harm of corn starch is also considerable. Like other artificially obtained products, it is devoid of everything except practical benefits for production. A small portion of this powder contains a lot of calories, but there is practically no dietary fiber, which is so necessary for the body. All this contributes to weight gain and obesity. The formation of deposits of excess fat on internal organs leads to very serious disruptions in their functioning and serious illnesses.

Nobody uses the additive as food on their own, but it is found in ketchups, mayonnaise, confectionery, cheap sausages, and some dairy products. That is, in those products that fill the shelves and our refrigerators. Moreover, corn starch is used as a thickener in large dosages, so the caloric content of products increases by an order of magnitude.

These products themselves cannot be called healthy either; they contain salts, sugars, preservatives, etc. If you exclude only cornstarch from your diet, but leave other foods that are not related to a healthy diet, your body will not experience significant benefits.

Natural or modified

For many, the scary word “modified” is associated with great harm and serious health consequences. Modified does not mean made from GMOs. In the case of starch, modification consists only of processing methods that improve the quality of the finished product. Therefore, modified starch is no worse than regular starch, it contains slightly less proteins and carbohydrates, practically no minerals, and lower calorie content - only 328 kcal.

Application in cosmetology

Perhaps the only area in which starch is not harmful is cosmetology. White powder, capable of absorbing fats and other skin secretions, is used in the preparation of powders, powders, ointments, creams, pastes, and other products for external use.

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Corn starch - a source of health, energy and beauty

Corn starch is a useful by-product that is actively used in the food industry and is used as a thickener. It is extracted by crushing grains, which must first be soaked in acid. The product is used not only in the preparation of various dishes. Its benefits have been appreciated even when used in home cosmetology. Everything about the action and possible harm of starch in our review.

Corn starch is a translucent or white paste that is slightly viscous. The by-product has a significant ability to swell in water of any temperature.

To obtain starch, you will need to isolate the germ from corn kernels. To do this, they need to be softened. After grinding the cereal, manufacturers obtain starch milk. And the dry product is formed in special centrifuges. Only after washing and drying does corn starch become suitable for cooking and use in folk medicine.

The white powder may have a yellowish tint. It is rich in fatty acids, microelements and other beneficial substances. But the product contains little protein and ash. Its vitamin and mineral composition helps the body maintain strength, and also has a positive effect on the nervous system and brain activity.

If necessary, starch can be replaced with corn flour. But the first product is used much more often. Flour is obtained by grinding corn grains, but later it is not subjected to such complex processing and sometimes produces a cloudy sediment when used to prepare various sauces. It is starch that becomes a good thickener when used in the food industry, not flour.

Corn starch is a natural and healthy thickener

Table: Chemical composition (per 100 g of product)

The popularity of corn starch is due to its special composition and low calorie content. The contents of the various components can be seen in the table.

Calorie content	381 kcal
Squirrels	0.26 g
Fats	0.05 g
Carbohydrates	91.27 g
Alimentary fiber	0.9 g
Water	8.32 g
Ash	0.09 g
Vitamins
Vitamin B4, choline	0.4 mg
Macronutrients
Potassium, K	3 mg
Calcium, Ca	2 mg
Magnesium, Mg	3 mg
Sodium, Na	9 mg
Phosphorus, Ph	13 mg
Microelements
Iron, Fe	0.47 mg
Manganese, Mn	0.053 mg
Copper, Cu	50 mcg
Selenium, Se	2.8 mcg
Zinc, Zn	0.06 mg
Essential amino acids
Arginine	0.012 g
Valin	0.014 g
Histidine	0.008 g
Isoleucine	0.01 g
Leucine	0.036 g
Lysine	0.006 g
Methionine	0.006 g
Threonine	0.009 g
Tryptophan	0.001 g
Phenylalanine	0.013 g
Nonessential amino acids
Alanin	0.019 g
Aspartic acid	0.02 g
Glycine	0.009 g
Glutamic acid	0.053 g
Proline	0.024 g
Serin	0.012 g
Tyrosine	0.01 g
Cysteine	0.006 g
Fatty acid
Omega-6 fatty acids	0.025 g
Saturated fatty acids
Palmitic	0.009 g
Stearic	0.001 g
Monounsaturated fatty acids
Oleic (omega-9)	0.016 g
Polyunsaturated fatty acids
Linoleic	0.025 g

Useful properties of starch

Regular consumption of products containing corn starch is especially recommended for diabetics. It allows you to control blood sugar and maintain its normal level.

Carbohydrates are broken down slowly, which delays the release of sugars.

The beneficial effects of offal on human immunity have been proven. It leads to the growth of muscle mass, strengthens the body, and helps prevent the development of inflammatory and infectious processes. The positive effect is also manifested in the regular feeding of nerve cells, which leads to the relief of prolonged depressive states and calmness.

blood vessels and heart;
genitourinary system;
gallbladder;
kidney

This product effectively and positively affects the body in cases of anemia, chronic or periodic hypertension, and excessive swelling. The absence of gluten allows the use of starch obtained from corn grains for the preparation of dietary dishes. We note the following positive properties of this product:

removes waste and toxins from the body;
stabilizes the condition of blood vessels and blood clotting;
exhibits choleretic, diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects;
increases appetite;
significantly reduces cholesterol levels;
promotes weight loss;
eliminates skin problems.

Areas of application

All kinds of cosmetic powders, ointments and powders are made from the offal.
Starch is a component of many pharmacological drugs.
Meat, fish, canned food, ice cream and candies, mayonnaise, pasta, ketchup and semi-finished products - all of these products contain corn starch.
It can be used to make a high quality thickener.
Starch is used in the production of bakery and confectionery products, if it is necessary to make them soft and fluffy. We are talking about biscuits, waffle cups and other products.
Chocolate candies are also cast from this substance, and it is also used to improve the quality of wheat flour.
Among athletes, the product is used to improve tone and give energy to professionals.

Contraindications and possible harm

When choosing a low-quality product from plants with pesticides, starch can cause serious harm to a healthy body

Some people have an individual intolerance to corn by-product and cannot consume it. There are also the following contraindications:

gastritis, heartburn and other gastrointestinal problems;
obesity;
thrombophlebitis and increased blood clotting.

Intolerance to starch components can provoke asthma attacks or negative skin reactions such as itching and hives, severe redness and peeling.

Features of product use

Normal for a healthy person

To provide the body with useful microelements and amino acids, you should consume from 300 to 420 grams of the product per day. This is possible if you eat corn or corn flakes, pasta, flour products and cereals every day, but in moderation. For example, you can choose to cook pasta, oatmeal, or eat half a pack of corn flakes.

During pregnancy

Doctors recommend that pregnant women consume starch not in its pure form, but in the “format” of corn cobs or porridge. It is enough to include one boiled cob per day in your diet to replenish the required percentage of amino acids, vitamins and microelements. The product is especially useful in the first trimester, as it weakens toxicosis and makes it easier to tolerate. If, with this consumption, an allergy to corn does not manifest itself by the second trimester, you can continue to consume foods with starch every day or every other day.

While breastfeeding

During the postpartum period, cornstarch is essential for providing nutrients to breast milk. But it is better to eat it when the baby is three months old. First you need to check his reaction. If daily use of the product in the morning does not cause allergic reactions, you should continue in the same spirit.

Be sure to include porridge in your diet in amounts up to 300 ml two to three times a week. It is possible to use this dish more often if you do not develop individual intolerance.

For children: at what age can it be given?

You can prepare a delicious jelly for your child using corn starch.

Cornstarch has been proven to be good for children. It is a gluten-free product and allows you to saturate the body with nutrients and microelements. It is recommended to introduce jelly and corn porridge, as well as boiled corn puree, into complementary foods from the sixth month of the baby’s life. The dosage of starch should not exceed 120–150 grams per day.

After the child reaches the age of 1 year, the amount of starch in his diet can be increased.

For various diseases

Gastritis

If you have gastritis, you should not eat foods containing corn by-product. This applies to diseases in remission and exacerbations of gastrointestinal pathologies.

Pancreatitis

If you have pancreatitis, you need to carefully monitor your diet. For example, boiled corn should not be eaten. This product is too heavy for the pancreas. But jelly and porridge, which contain starch, are even recommended. Eat them once a day (about 350 ml). Porridge can be consumed up to three to four times a week.

Diabetes

If a person suffers from diabetes, corn by-product must be present in his diet in various forms. But the daily norms depend on the patient’s weight. It is allowed to eat meat, pasta, canned food, and sauces. However, the total amount of products with corn starch should be thirty percent of the volume consumed per day.

When losing weight (including on the Dukan diet)

Dr. Dukan does not object to the use of cornstarch as part of his diet

The offal will help you lose weight, despite its calorie content. Pierre Dukan, for example, recommends starting to take twenty grams of corn starch per day in the second stage of his famous diet and continuing to adhere to a similar diet in the third and fourth stages of weight loss.

A well-known nutritionist advises including the ingredient in baked goods to quickly lose several kilograms. It is allowed to eat pancakes, cakes, sweets, pureed purees and soups, mayonnaise and sauces, if corn starch and not potato starch is used as a thickener.

Traditional medicine recipes

For hypertension

Treatment of hypertension is possible using the component in question. You will need to dilute twenty grams of starch in 100 ml of warm water and drink the resulting mixture at one time. The course of treatment is fourteen days.

For gastrointestinal disorders

If you have diarrhea or another gastrointestinal disorder, take one hundred milliliters of boiling water and pour one tablespoon of prepared corn raw material. Then add a few drops of iodine and drink the product in one go. The resulting medicine will quickly eliminate the negative manifestations of the disease.

For inflammation in the gallbladder

You can eliminate inflammatory processes in the gallbladder by taking 300 ml of water and pouring 30 grams of starch into it. Mix the resulting product and take ten grams of it daily (preferably three times a day). The course of treatment is seven to ten days (depending on the nature of the inflammation and the intensity of its manifestations).

For bruises

Corn starch will help cope with bruises and bruises if you apply a compress of two tablespoons of the raw material dissolved in one spoon of warm water to the problem area. The product is used every three hours and left until the compress dries. Within a day of the procedure, the result becomes noticeable.

How to use for the beauty of facial skin and hair?

The product is often used to create masks that rejuvenate the skin and slow down the aging process of the epidermis

Lifting effect

You can achieve a tightening effect if you take one spoon of starch and mix it with egg white and the same amount of kefir. Mix the mixture thoroughly and apply to cleansed skin for 15 minutes. After this, wash your face with warm water and wipe your skin with cosmetic ice to increase the effectiveness of the procedure.

Epidermal regeneration

To restore and renew the skin, mix two teaspoons of gelatin dissolved in water with a spoonful of starch and egg yolk. Don't forget to add five drops of tea tree oil and up to ten drops of wheat germ oil. Apply the product to your face for twenty minutes. Wash your face and you will see a great effect: a tightened contour of your cheeks and chin.

Nutrient mixture

To nourish dry skin, mix a quarter or half of a banana with a teaspoon of dry cornstarch. It is enough to just put the product on your face for ten minutes to saturate it with vitamins and fatty acids.

Cleansing foam

You can make a facial cleanser that improves your complexion. To do this, dilute one teaspoon of corn raw material in a liter of heated water. Mix the solution and wash your face regularly with a similar product. An invisible film will be created on the skin, protecting the skin from the negative effects of the environment.

Hello. My name is Valeriya. Like any woman, I am interested in the topic of beauty and health. Therefore, I study all the new products in the cosmetology industry, and try what I find interesting and useful on myself. Writing texts for me is an excellent opportunity to share with readers my thoughts and knowledge, as well as practical experience in using various tools and procedures.