Who wouldn’t want a great big bowl of popcorn snuggled up under a blanket while watching a favourite movie?
Plain popcorn is one of the healthiest and most versatile snacks you can have. It is an excellent source of fiber, low in calories and fat, and has a long shelf life, making it a perfect snack for anyone who wants to stay healthy and fit.
Here are 10 healthy reasons you should be consuming popcorn:
- Low in calories: One of the most significant benefits of plain popcorn is that it is low in calories. A cup of air-popped popcorn contains only about 30 calories, making it an excellent snack option for people who are watching their weight.
- High in fiber: Popcorn is also high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Fiber is also essential for maintaining good digestive health.
- Low in fat: When prepared without added oils or butter, popcorn is a low-fat snack. This makes it a healthier alternative to other snacks that are high in saturated and trans fats.
- Gluten-free: For those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease, plain popcorn is a safe and delicious snack option.
- Non-allergenic: Popcorn is a non-allergenic food, making it a great snack option for people with food allergies.
- Versatile: Plain popcorn can be seasoned and flavored in a variety of ways, making it a versatile snack option that can be customized to your taste preferences.
- Portable: Popcorn is a great snack option for on-the-go, as it can easily be packed into a bag or container and taken with you.
- Inexpensive: Plain popcorn is an affordable snack option, making it accessible to people on a budget.
- Long shelf life: Popcorn has a long shelf life when stored properly, making it a convenient snack option to keep on hand for whenever hunger strikes.
- Provides antioxidants: Popcorn is a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce your risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants are important for maintaining good health, and consuming plain popcorn is an easy way to get them into your diet.
Plain popcorn is an excellent snack option for anyone whos looking for a snack that helps them stay healthy and fit. It is low in calories, high in fiber, and provides important nutrients and antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage. So, the next time you are looking for a healthy snack, reach for a bowl of popcorn, and enjoy all of the benefits it has to offer.
Don’t like it plain? Here are a couple healthy ways to jazz your popcorn up:
Garlic Parmesan Popcorn
Ingredients:
- 3 cups plain popcorn
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread the plain popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and minced garlic.
- Drizzle the olive oil and garlic mixture over the popcorn, and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and salt over the popcorn.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, until the Parmesan cheese is melted and the popcorn is lightly browned.
- Serve and enjoy!
Spicy Popcorn
Ingredients:
- 3 cups plain popcorn
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the cumin, paprika, and chili powder to the saucepan, and stir for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Drizzle the spiced olive oil over the plain popcorn, and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle salt over the popcorn to taste.
- Serve and enjoy!
These two recipes are both delicious and healthy ways to jazz up plain popcorn. They’re easy to make, and they’re perfect for snacking on during a movie night or any time you want a quick and tasty snack.
In Health,
PureSense Health Clients:
- 3 Cups popped “Naked” popcorn = 1 starch
- 3 Cups popped “Jazzed Up” popcorn = 1 starch + 2 fats