Popping your own corn is one of the easiest and healthiest ways to enjoy popcorn. It’s a great snack that contains fiber, antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals.
Toss the microwave bags out of your cupboard and start popping!
Health Benefits of Popcorn:
- Popcorn is loaded with fiber – filling your belly up quickly while slowing down digestion. This results in a lower insulin spike than you would get from most foods. It also causes less constipation because it absorbs water in the gut. Popcorn contains protein as well as other important nutrients. It provides thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin, vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, folic acid, vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium.
- Popcorn is high in antioxidants which help fight disease and prevent aging. Antioxidants are helpful in preventing heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure. Your eyes can benefit from antioxidants as well. Studies show that eating foods high in antioxidants can reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration which can cause blindness later in life. Antioxidants have also been linked to the prevention of cancer and arthritis as well as lowered risk for diabetes
- Popcorn is low in calories and sugars and high in fiber which makes it a great alternative to salty or sugary snacks.
- Popcorn contains phenolic compounds which are natural anti-inflammatory compounds that may reduce your risk of stroke, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and certain cancers.
Preparing healthy popcorn
The type of popcorn you buy matters. Look for popcorn kernels that are certified organic or non-GMO. This means that they do not use any harmful pesticides or herbicides when they grow their crops. You may have to pay a little more for these types of kernels, but your health will be well worth it.
