Calories In 1 Ear Of Corn With Butter
When it comes to counting calories, it's important to be mindful of what you put in your body. Corn is a popular vegetable that is often enjoyed with a pat of butter. But how many calories are in 1 ear of corn with butter? In this article, we will explore the nutritional value of corn, the calories in an ear of corn with butter, and how to make healthy choices when it comes to this food.
The Nutritional Value of Corn
Corn is a starchy vegetable that is often consumed as a side dish or in salads, soups, and other dishes. It is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here are some of the key nutritional elements in corn:
- Calories: 96
- Protein: 3.4 grams
- Fat: 1.5 grams
- Carbs: 19 grams
- Fiber: 2.4 grams
- Vitamin C: 10% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin B6: 15% of the DV
- Potassium: 10% of the DV
As you can see, corn is a nutritious vegetable that can be a great addition to a balanced diet. It is low in fat and calories, high in fiber, and contains important vitamins and minerals that our bodies need to function properly.
Calories in 1 Ear of Corn with Butter
While corn itself is healthy, the calories in an ear of corn with butter can add up quickly. One tablespoon of butter has around 100 calories, and it's easy to use more than that when spreading it on an ear of corn. So how many calories are in 1 ear of corn with butter?
On average, a medium-sized ear of corn has around 90-100 calories. Adding one tablespoon of butter to the corn adds an additional 100 calories, bringing the total to around 190-200 calories per ear of corn with butter.
It's important to note that these estimates are based on using one tablespoon of butter, which is a relatively small amount. If you use more butter or a flavored butter, the calorie count will increase accordingly.
Making Healthy Choices
If you enjoy corn with butter, there are a few things you can do to make healthier choices. Here are some tips:
- Use less butter: One tablespoon of butter is a lot of fat and calories. Try using a small amount of butter, or skip it altogether and opt for seasoning the corn with herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Choose healthier fats: If you want to use butter, consider using a low-fat or whipped variety. You can also try using olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter.
- Pair corn with protein: Corn is a good source of carbohydrates, but it's important to pair it with protein to create a balanced meal. Consider grilling chicken or fish alongside the corn, or add black beans or quinoa to a corn salad.
- Choose fresh, whole corn: While canned or frozen corn can be convenient, it often contains added salt and preservatives. When possible, choose fresh, whole corn and cook it yourself.
By following these tips, you can enjoy the delicious taste of corn with butter without compromising your health or your waistline.
Conclusion
In conclusion, corn is a healthy and nutritious vegetable that is a great addition to a balanced diet. While adding butter to corn can increase the calorie count significantly, there are ways to enjoy corn with butter while still making healthy choices. By using less butter, choosing healthier fats, pairing corn with protein, and choosing fresh, whole corn, you can enjoy this delicious vegetable without guilt. Remember to be mindful of portion sizes and to make choices that support your overall health and wellness.