What To Know
- However, it’s important to keep in mind that the calories in corn on the cob can add up quickly if you eat several ears.
- If you’re watching your calorie intake, there are a few things you can do to reduce the calories in corn on the cob.
- Overall, corn on the cob is a healthy food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Corn on the cob is a beloved summertime treat, but it’s not always clear whether it’s a healthy choice. After all, it’s a starchy vegetable, and starch is often associated with high calories. So, does corn on the cob have calories?
The answer is yes, corn on the cob does have calories. One medium-sized ear of corn contains about 120 calories. However, it’s important to note that these calories are not all bad. Corn is also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Corn on the Cob Calories vs. Other Foods
To put corn on the cob’s calorie count in perspective, let’s compare it to other popular foods:
- 1 medium apple: 95 calories
- 1 cup of cooked brown rice: 216 calories
- 1 slice of whole-wheat bread: 110 calories
- 1 cup of nonfat yogurt: 120 calories
As you can see, corn on the cob has a similar calorie content to other healthy foods. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the calories in corn on the cob can add up quickly if you eat several ears.
How to Reduce the Calories in Corn on the Cob
If you’re watching your calorie intake, there are a few things you can do to reduce the calories in corn on the cob:
- Choose smaller ears of corn. A small ear of corn contains about 80 calories, compared to 120 calories for a medium ear.
- Eat the corn on the cob without butter or salt. Butter and salt can add extra calories and sodium to your snack.
- Grill or roast the corn on the cob instead of boiling it. Grilling or roasting the corn will help to caramelize the sugars and make it more flavorful, without adding extra calories.
Nutritional Value of Corn on the Cob
In addition to calories, corn on the cob is also a good source of several nutrients, including:
- Fiber: Corn is a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels, while insoluble fiber helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Vitamins: Corn is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B vitamins. Vitamin A is important for vision, vitamin C is important for immune function, and B vitamins are important for energy metabolism.
- Minerals: Corn is a good source of minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron. Potassium is important for maintaining blood pressure, magnesium is important for muscle function, and iron is important for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Is Corn on the Cob Healthy?
Overall, corn on the cob is a healthy food that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. It’s a good source of calories, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the calories in corn on the cob can add up quickly if you eat several ears. If you’re watching your calorie intake, choose smaller ears of corn, eat it without butter or salt, and grill or roast it instead of boiling it.
Corn on the Cob and Weight Loss
Corn on the cob can be a good choice for people who are trying to lose weight. It’s a relatively low-calorie food that is filling and satisfying. The fiber in corn can help to keep you feeling full and reduce your overall calorie intake.
Corn on the Cob for Diabetics
Corn on the cob is a good choice for people with diabetes. It has a relatively low glycemic index, which means that it doesn’t cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. The fiber in corn can also help to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
Corn on the Cob for Pregnant Women
Corn on the cob is a good choice for pregnant women. It’s a good source of folic acid, which is important for the development of the baby’s neural tube. Corn is also a good source of fiber, which can help to prevent constipation during pregnancy.
Corn on the Cob for Babies
Corn on the cob is not recommended for babies under the age of one year. This is because corn is a choking hazard for young children. If you do give corn on the cob to a baby, be sure to cut it into small pieces and supervise your child while they are eating it.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Is corn on the cob a good source of protein?
No, corn on the cob is not a good source of protein. It contains only about 2 grams of protein per ear.
Is corn on the cob a good source of carbohydrates?
Yes, corn on the cob is a good source of carbohydrates. It contains about 25 grams of carbohydrates per ear.
Is corn on the cob a good source of fat?
No, corn on the cob is not a good source of fat. It contains only about 1 gram of fat per ear.
Is corn on the cob a good source of vitamins and minerals?
Yes, corn on the cob is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
Is corn on the cob a good choice for people with diabetes?
Yes, corn on the cob is a good choice for people with diabetes. It has a relatively low glycemic index and the fiber in corn can help to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
Is corn on the cob a good choice for pregnant women?
Yes, corn on the cob is a good choice for pregnant women. It’s a good source of folic acid, which is important for the development of the baby’s neural tube.
