Popcorn, a whole-grain snack naturally low in calories, has kernels with a thicker hull than other types of corn. When heated, the starch inside popcorn kernels turns gelatinous, and the water inside creates pressure that causes the kernel to burst open.
Calories
A quarter-cup of unpopped popcorn kernels, which is about 66 g, contains 248 calories. That 1/4 cup will become about 10 cups of popped corn, or two servings.
Nutrition
One serving of popcorn -- 2 tbsp. popcorn kernels or about 5 cups of popped corn -- contains 4 g of fiber, 24 g carbohydrates, 3 g of protein and 1 g of fat. It also contains 1 mg of iron, about 8 percent of the recommended daily allowance.
Considerations
Popcorn is a good source of fiber, which helps maintain a healthy digestive system. Adults should consume 20 to 30 g of fiber per day, or 14 g for every 1,000 calories consumed, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Most Americans get only half this amount, HelpGuide.org reports.
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