Popcorn vs Rice cake

Complete nutritional and glycemic index comparison

Quick Summary

Popcorn
Better Overall Choice
(Lower GI 55 vs 85)
30
GI Difference
Rice cake higher
12
Calorie Difference
Rice cake higher

Detailed Comparison

Popcorn
Metric
Rice cake
Difference
55
Glycemic Index
85
+30.0 higher
40.7
Glycemic Load
69.7
+29.0 higher
375 cal
Calories
387 cal
+12.0 cal higher
74g
Carbohydrates
82g
+8.0g higher
11g
Protein
8g
3.0g lower
4.3g
Fat
2.8g
1.5g lower

Expert Analysis

Blood Sugar Impact

Rice cake causes significantly faster blood sugar spikes than Popcorn. The 30-point GI difference means Rice cake is absorbed much more rapidly, potentially causing energy crashes and increased hunger.

Diabetes Consideration

Popcorn is an excellent choice for diabetes management with its low GI. Rice cake should be consumed cautiously or avoided due to its high GI.

Nutritional Breakdown

Calorie difference: 12 cal/100g (375 vs 387). Carbohydrate difference: 8g/100g (74g vs 82g). Popcorn provides 3.0g more protein.

Practical Advice

Choose Popcorn for: weight management, diabetes control, sustained energy, and reduced cravings. Reserve Rice cake for post-workout recovery or when quick energy is needed.

Popcorn Best For:

Daily consumption, diabetes management, weight loss

Rice cake Best For:

Post-exercise recovery, occasional treats

Popcorn - GI Profile

Glycemic Index55 (Low)
0
55
70
100
Category:Fast food
Portion size:100g
GL per portion:40.7

Rice cake - GI Profile

Glycemic Index85 (High)
0
55
70
100
Category:Baked Products
Portion size:100g
GL per portion:69.7

Recommendations

For Blood Sugar Control: Choose Popcorn

Popcorn has a low glycemic index of 55, which will cause a slow and steady rise in blood sugar.

Analysis

Popcorn has a low GI of 55 while Rice cake has a high GI of 85, a difference of 30 points.