Calories In One Ear Of Sweet Corn
Sweet corn is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is loved by many people around the world. It is a great addition to any meal and is especially popular during the summer months when it is in season. Sweet corn is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. But, how many calories are in one ear of sweet corn? In this article, we will explore the calorie content of sweet corn and why it is a healthy addition to your diet.
What Is Sweet Corn?
Sweet corn is a variety of maize that is harvested when it is still immature. The kernels are tender and sweet, which is why it is called sweet corn. Sweet corn is available in different colors, including yellow, white, and bi-color. It can be cooked in various ways, such as boiling, grilling, roasting, or steaming. Sweet corn is a popular vegetable in the United States and is commonly eaten as a side dish or added to salads, soups, stews, and casseroles.
Calories In One Ear Of Sweet Corn
The number of calories in one ear of sweet corn depends on its size and cooking method. On average, one ear of sweet corn contains around 85-100 calories. This amount is based on a medium-sized ear of corn that is boiled or grilled without any added butter or toppings. However, if you add butter, salt, or other seasonings to your sweet corn, the calorie content will increase. For example, one tablespoon of butter adds around 100 calories to your corn, while one teaspoon of salt adds around 5 calories. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of how you prepare your sweet corn if you are watching your calorie intake.
Nutritional Value Of Sweet Corn
Although sweet corn is not a low-calorie food, it is rich in nutrients that are essential for good health. One ear of sweet corn provides the following nutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 19 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 3 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Vitamin C: 17% of the daily value (DV)
- Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 13% of DV
- Folate: 10% of DV
- Magnesium: 9% of DV
- Potassium: 8% of DV
- Phosphorus: 8% of DV
As you can see, sweet corn is a good source of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein. It also contains several vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage and supports your immune system. Thiamin is important for energy metabolism and brain function. Folate is crucial for proper fetal development during pregnancy. Magnesium and potassium are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Phosphorus is important for strong bones and teeth.
Health Benefits Of Sweet Corn
In addition to its nutritional value, sweet corn has several health benefits. Here are some of them:
- Helps Digestion: Sweet corn is rich in fiber, which helps promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation. Fiber also nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your gut and supports a healthy digestive system.
- Supports Eye Health: Sweet corn is a good source of zeaxanthin and lutein, two antioxidants that are important for eye health. They help protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and reduce your risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
- Boosts Energy: Sweet corn is a good source of carbohydrates, which are the main source of energy for your body. Eating sweet corn can help you feel full and satisfied, and provide you with the energy you need to power through your day.
- Improves Heart Health: Sweet corn is low in fat and sodium and high in potassium and magnesium, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. Eating sweet corn can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Supports Weight Loss: Sweet corn is relatively low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied with fewer calories. Eating sweet corn can help you lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Conclusion
One ear of sweet corn contains around 85-100 calories, depending on its size and cooking method. Although sweet corn is not a low-calorie food, it is rich in nutrients that are essential for good health, such as carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Sweet corn also has several health benefits, such as promoting digestion, supporting eye health, boosting energy, improving heart health, and supporting weight loss. Therefore, sweet corn is a healthy and delicious addition to your diet, as long as you watch your portion size and prepare it in a healthy way.