Popcorn is a good source of whole grains and carbohydrates; it's an appropriate snack for anyone looking to shed a few extra pounds. Consider the caloric value of popped popcorn when tracking your daily dietary intake.
Popped in Oil
Unbuttered popcorn popped in oil has a higher caloric value than plain, air-popped popcorn. FitDay.com reports that 1 cup of popcorn popped in oil contains about 55 calories, with about 28 of those calories from fat.
Popped in Air
Air-popped popcorn is a lower-calorie choice than popcorn popped in oil. Air-popped popcorn provides 31 calories per cup, with about three calories coming from fat. A cup of plain popcorn also contains about 6 g of carbohydrates and 2 g dietary fiber.
Additional Calories
Butter and other condiments add calories. Buttered popcorn that was popped without oil provides about 62 calories per cup, with 33 of those calories from fat. Buttered popcorn that was popped in oil contains about 73 calories per cup, with about 42 of those calories from fat. Adding popcorn seasoning, salt and other condiments to popcorn decreases its value as a diet-friendly food and may add calories.
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