Is Popcorn A Good Low Calorie Snack?

What Is Popcorn?

Popcorn is a type of corn that expands from the kernel and puffs up when heated. It is a whole-grain snack that is made from the kernels of corn. Popcorn is considered a whole-grain food, which is a type of plant food that contains all three parts of the grain: the bran, germ and endosperm. Whole-grain foods contain important vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and healthful plant compounds. Popcorn is low in calories and contains a good amount of fiber and polyphenols, antioxidants that are linked to various health benefits.

Calorie Count of Popcorn

Popcorn is a low-calorie snack. A 3-cup serving of air-popped popcorn contains 93 calories and a small serving size of just 1 cup of air-popped popcorn contains only 31 calories. Popcorn is also a low-fat snack, with a 3-cup serving containing just 1.8 grams of fat. Popcorn is a great choice for those who are looking to reduce their calorie intake but still want to enjoy a tasty snack.

Health Benefits of Eating Popcorn

Popcorn is a healthy snack choice because it is low in calories and fat, yet high in fiber and other important nutrients. It is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. Eating popcorn is a great way to get in your daily fiber, which is important for digestion, heart health and weight management. Popcorn is also a good source of polyphenols, antioxidants that are linked to various health benefits.

How to Make Popcorn Healthier

Popcorn can be a healthy snack, but the way it is prepared can make it less healthy. A lot of store-bought popcorn varieties are high in calories, fat and sodium. To make popcorn healthier, opt for air-popped or lightly-salted varieties. You can also make your own popcorn at home using a hot air popper or a stovetop popper. This way, you can control the amount of oil and salt that you use. For added flavor, try adding spices such as garlic powder, chili powder or cumin.

Bottom Line

Popcorn is a low-calorie snack that is packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals. It is a good source of polyphenols, which are antioxidants that are linked to various health benefits. To make popcorn a healthier snack, opt for air-popped or lightly-salted varieties and avoid store-bought varieties that are high in calories, fat and sodium. You can also try making your own popcorn at home and adding spices for flavor.