Many parties and watching
movies cannot be imagined without popcorn. If you often consume these
contagious snacks, and if you are feeling guilty afterward, you are probably
wondering if it healthy to eat popcorn.
What you should know is that actually, popcorn is a great addition to your diet.
What you should know is that actually, popcorn is a great addition to your diet.
These healthy snacks have many benefits for your health. These are a few reasons why it is healthy to eat popcorn:
Benefits of Popcorn
1. Whole-Grain Food
You probably don’t really
think of popcorn as a whole grain food, but it is! And you know how important
whole grains are for a healthy and balanced diet. They contain nutrients that
can reduce your risk of heart disease, regulate your digestive system, and
boost your immunity. When eaten the right way, popcorn is a healthy and
satisfying snack that helps keep you full without sabotaging your diet.
2. Antioxidants
Popcorn is a good source of
polyphenols. Believe it or not, popcorn contains more polyphenols than fruits
and vegetables, according to many researchers. Polyphenols are powerful
antioxidants known to decrease oxidative stress, improve blood vessel function,
improve immunity, and decrease inflammation. In addition, antioxidants protect
your body from free radicals which tend to damage your healthy cells.
3. Rich In Fiber
Whole grains are a rich source
of fiber, and because popcorn is obtained from corn grains when cooked, they
don’t lose their nutritional value. According to studies, the daily recommended
intake of fiber should be around 20 to 35 grams. 100 grams of popcorn contains
15 grams of fiber. Fiber is also very important nutrition, as they are the best
option against stomach toxins and they help in an excellent way for better
digestion.
4. Are Disease Defenders
The best snack of all time is
also known as being a great defender of many diseases. Consuming popcorn
regularly and in right amounts may help you in reducing the risk of many major
diseases including heart diseases, cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and certain
cancers. Popcorn is also a great natural source of phosphorus, iron, and zinc.
These nutrients can help you boost your immune system.
5. Low Calories
Popcorn has very low caloric
value. But the number of calories in popcorn depends on the way they are
prepared. Nutritionists often do not recommend them because of a large amount
of salt and butter used in their preparation. Thus, in one serving popcorn
prepared in olive oil and without the addition of butter, there are about 90
calories, but if you do not look out for these things, the calorie level can
rise to 300. If you prepare them with olive oil and with less salt, popcorn has
many benefits for your health.
6. Gluten-Free
Popcorn is naturally
gluten-free, which makes it a suitable snack for those with Celiac disease or
gluten sensitivity, but you still have to be careful. When buying packaged
popcorn, it’s important to read the label. Check for the words “contains wheat”
on the ingredient lists and be extra careful with flavored popcorn.
