You probably think popcorn is one of the snacks you’ll have to give up if you’re trying to eat smarter and watch your weight, right? Well, not so fast! Popcorn is good for you! You still can’t work your way through a super-size tub at the movie theater, and you can’t drown it in butter, but popcorn is a really smart snack choice. Here are just 7 ways popcorn is good for you:
- It’s full of antioxidants- even more that a serving a fruit!
- It’s a great source of iron, potassium, and vitamins B and E.
- Popcorn has lots of fiber.
- It has a low GI- glycemic index- which means it helps keep your blood sugar stable.
- It’s considered a whole grain and has all those benefits.
- It’s relatively inexpensive, so also good for your budget.
- Popcorn is a good source of serotonin, a relaxing mood-booster. And you thought it was just the satisfying crunch and delicious taste that made you happy!
Microwave popcorn is very convenient, but often has too much fat, salt, and other processed ingredients. Instead, try some other alternatives for making popcorn at home. You can make it in an air popper for a fat-free, sodium-free snack, but let’s be honest: that doesn’t really have a whole lot of flavor. Instead, try making it the old fashioned way – in a pot with some canola oil. Here’s how:
- Heat a thin layer of oil in a large pot and add 3 or 4 popcorn kernels.
- Cover and shake the pot occasionally
- When the kernels start to pop, add the rest of the popcorn – enough to cover the bottom of the pot in one layer.
- Keep shaking the pot, keeping the lid open slightly to allow steam to escape until all the kernels are popped.
- Transfer to a bowl and add sea salt to taste.
Popcorn is so good as it is, but it also does very well with a little pizzazz. Click for 30 healthy ways to spice up your popcorn. Next time you’re craving a crunchy snack, go for popcorn instead of chips and tell yourself that it’s actually a health food. Just be careful and don’t give popcorn to kids under 4 because of the choking hazard.