Carbs in Corn: The Quick Answer
Corn contains 16.7g of net carbs per 100g, calculated by subtracting 2.0g of dietary fiber from 18.7g of total carbohydrates. With 86.0 calories, 3.3g protein, and 1.4g fat per 100g, it is classified as Moderate Carbs for carbohydrate content.
Net carbs — not total carbs — are what matter for keto and low-carb diets. Only net carbs raise blood sugar and affect insulin, which is why tracking them accurately is key to staying in ketosis. Use our Keto Macro Calculator to find your daily net carb limit based on your body and goals.
Is Corn Keto Friendly?
Corn has 16.7g net carbs per 100g, which is moderate. It can be included occasionally on keto if portions are controlled and the rest of your day's carbs are kept very low.
Best Low-Carb Swaps for Corn
Corn is high in carbs. If you're eating low-carb or keto, these swaps deliver the same satisfaction with a fraction of the net carbs.
| Instead of | Try this | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Corn (1 ear, ~25g net carbs) | Edamame (in pods or shelled) | Similar fun-to-eat snack quality, ~5g net carbs per ½ cup shelled |
| Corn in a salad | Snap peas or diced bell pepper | Adds crunch and sweetness to salads — ~3g net carbs |
| Corn as a side | Roasted cauliflower with paprika and butter | Warm, comforting side dish — ~3g net carbs per serving |
| Creamed corn | Creamed cauliflower (pureed with butter and cream) | Same silky texture and color — ~3g net carbs |
How Net Carbs Are Calculated
Net carbs are calculated by subtracting dietary fiber (and sugar alcohols, if present) from total carbohydrates: Net Carbs = Total Carbs − Fiber. For Corn: 18.7g − 2.0g = 16.7g net carbs per 100g.
Dietary fiber is subtracted because it passes through the digestive system without being absorbed as glucose. It does not raise blood sugar or trigger an insulin response, making it irrelevant for carb counting on keto and low-carb diets.