Understanding Canned Corn Nutrition Facts
Canned corn can be a nutritious addition to many dishes and meal plans or consumed as a quick and tasty snack. However, the calories, nutrients, and health impacts can vary greatly between different preparation styles of canned corn.
Types of Canned Corn
The three main varieties of canned corn include:
- Canned corn, drained - corn with no liquid added
- Canned corn, no salt added - corn packed in water without added salt
- Creamed corn - corn suspended in a thickened milk or cream mixture
Checking the Nutrition Label
Reading nutrition facts panels allows consumers to compare calories, macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and ingredients between different canned corn options. This helps select the variety best aligned with individual nutrition needs and diet preferences.
Calories and Macronutrients in Canned Corn
Drained Canned Corn
A 12 cup serving of drained canned corn contains around:
- Calories: 67
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
No Salt Added Canned Corn
A 12 cup serving of no salt added canned corn contains approximately:
- Calories: 60
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbohydrates: 13 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Fat: 0 grams
Creamed Canned Corn
A 12 cup serving of creamed corn holds around:
- Calories: 110-170
- Protein: 3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 17-22 grams
- Sugar: 3-4 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 4-8 grams
Vitamins and Minerals in Canned Corn
Beneficial Vitamins
All varieties of canned corn offer great sources of vitamins C, folate, niacin and thiamine. These support immune function, metabolic processes, nerve signaling and energy production.
Minerals for Health
Canned corn delivers minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc too. These minerals enable oxygen transport, bone health, muscular contraction, fluid balance and cell growth.
Comparisons to Fresh Corn
When it comes to vitamins and minerals, canned corn stacks up well against freshly cooked corn off the cob. Heat during processing destroys some vitamin C, but other heat-stable nutrients remain.
Health Benefits of Canned Corn
Antioxidant Protection
Corn contains carotenoid antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin which neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. This may lower disease risks like cancer, heart disease and degenerative eye issues.
Supports Digestion
The insoluble fiber and starch in corn benefits digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and healthy gut bacteria. However, individuals with irritable bowel syndrome may need to limit intake.
Managing Blood Sugar
Despite its sweet taste, corn scores low on the glycemic index, meaning it does not spike blood sugar levels rapidly. This makes corn a good grain choice for those managing diabetes.
Downsides to Consider
Allergy and Intolerance Risks
Corn allergies, while less common, can cause anaphylactic reactions. Corn also contains glutens, so those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should avoid it.
High Sodium Content
Canned corn, unlike the no salt added alternative, provides 15-20% of recommended daily sodium per serving. This may negatively impact those managing high blood pressure.
BPA Line Cans
Some cans containing corn are lined with BPA plastics to prevent corrosion. BPA exposure may increase risks for certain hormonal conditions and fertility issues.
In Conclusion
When shopping the canned goods aisle, be sure to read nutrition labels closely and select corn options aligning best with your dietary needs and restrictions. Proper portion sizes make canned corn a healthy pantry staple.
FAQs
Is canned corn healthy?
Yes, canned corn provides nutrients like vitamins C, B6, niacin, thiamine, magnesium, phosphorus, fiber and antioxidant carotenoids. It also has digestive and blood sugar management benefits when consumed in moderation.
Is creamed corn bad for you?
Creamed corn has more calories, carbohydrates, sugar and fat compared to other canned corn options. Still, small servings occasionally can fit into healthy diets for most people without issues.
Does no salt added corn taste different?
Those used to regular canned corn may notice no salt added varieties have a slightly more natural, subtle sweet corn flavor. However, adding your own seasoning provides plenty of flavor.
Can canned corn go bad or expire?
Properly stored unopened canned corn lasts 2-5 years. But quality degrades over time, with older cans more prone to texture changes and nutrient loss. For best quality, use within 1 year of purchase.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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