Popcorn is a food rich in fiber and low in calories. These are just some of the benefits of popcorn.
This makes it easy to understand why so many people make buckets of popcorn to eat during a movie or series.
What Are The Benefits Of Popcorn?
The benefits of popcorn go far beyond the dietary fiber present in the grain. In addition to fiber, popcorn is a good source of polyphenols ( antioxidants ).
These have been linked to better blood circulation, better digestion, and a potentially lower risk of certain types of cancer. Another benefit of popcorn is the SOCIETY it provides.
Due to its high fiber content, low calories and low energy density, popcorn is a food that can help with weight loss.
Is Popcorn Bad?
The alert we issue is referring to cinema popcorn. It tends to be very different from homemade popcorn (made at home, just with popcorn corn).
A large bag of movie theatre popcorn can have around 600 calories and 112mg of sodium.
This alone dramatically increases the total calories of the popcorn. After all, every gram of fat (macronutrient) equals nine calories.
Besides, it is a “dangerous” combination: carbohydrates + fats + sodium. That’s precisely why it makes it so delicious.
In the case of microwave popcorn, it was heavily condemned in the past due to its association with health problems. However, today, many of the chemicals involved have been removed. The general problem that makes microwave popcorn harmful is the high sodium level.
Is Popcorn Healthy? 8 Benefits Of Popcorn
Let’s see now some benefits of popcorn for health and why you should include it in your diet.
Popcorn Benefit # 1- Whole Grains
There are several health benefits of popcorn for being a whole grain.
In addition to being fiber-rich, popcorn also contains phenolic acids, a powerful antioxidant.[5]
This is a type of phytochemical called a polyphenol. The intestine absorbs them and can be beneficial to health precisely because they are antioxidants.
The Benefit Of Popcorn # 2- Source Of Fiber
Precisely because of the above fact (popcorn is a whole/whole grain), the benefit of popcorn being healthier is that it contains good dietary fiber.
This is great for gut health and proper digestive function – promoting regular bowel movements.
The Benefit Of Popcorn # 3- Vitamins And Minerals
Is popcorn healthy? If made correctly, popcorn contains many vitamins and minerals – including calcium, potassium, vitamins A and K.
The Benefit Of Popcorn # 4- Popcorn Is Low In Calories
See… 25g of popcorn has about 78 calories, with 15g of “good” carbohydrates (complex, low GI ), 2.4g of protein and only 0.1g of fat.
Popcorn Benefit #5- Lower Risk Of Diabetes
As seen previously, popcorn is a whole grain with several health benefits.
One such popcorn benefit is a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is common in middle-aged adults.
Benefit Of Popcorn #6- Lower Risk Of Heart Disease
Another benefit of popcorn is that it is rich in fiber and is associated with a lower risk of developing heart disease.
Dietary fiber is essential for a balanced and healthy diet.
Thus, popcorn is an ideal appetizer/snack that will contribute significantly to your daily fibre intake.
The Benefit Of Popcorn #7- Lower Risk Of Hypertension
Depending on how you prepare your popcorn – in this case, without adding oil/butter or salt – the benefit of popcorn is that it can help you lower your blood pressure and mitigate the risk of high blood pressure.
Finally (and not least), another benefit of popcorn is that it helps maintain ideal weight.
Popcorn Benefit #8- Can Contribute To Weight Maintenance
Finally (and not least), another benefit of popcorn is that it helps maintain ideal weight.
It is an ideal food to keep in the diet because it is rich in fiber, relatively low in calories and has little energy density. Whole, fiber-rich foods like popcorn can fight obesity.
Benefits Of Popcorn CONCLUSION
Remember these popcorn benefits the next time you watch a movie or series.
But remember that this does not apply to all popcorn – predominantly industrialized “bag” (microwave) or cinema popcorn.
Limit yourself to “simple” popcorn (homemade) made with just popcorn corn. This is healthier and can be added to the diet without any problems.
If you want to improve the flavour of popcorn, add seasonings, herbs and spices.