Popcorn: Health Benefits, Nutrition, and Preparation

However, some sources say popcorn is still very much susceptible to pesticide residue and other contamination, so you should always attempt to purchase it in a certified organic form. The subspecies of corn used in popcorn is not part of that 90-plus percent and is, as of now, never genetically modified. It is a much more filling snack than potato chips, according to a study done in Florida in 2012. This is one place where organic, air-popped popcorn nutrition can come in handy.
  • If you’re focused on getting enough protein each day, consider eating hard-boiled eggs as a nutritious snack that’s also filling.
  • Did you know that the right evening snacks can actually support your weight loss journey?
  • Popcorn is often perceived as a junk food, but it’s actually a whole grain that’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • With only 100 calories per serving, it’s a snack that’s unlikely to sabotage your diet.
  • It’s important to remember to eat your popcorn plain for the most benefits.
  • Fitterfly is a health-tech company working in the field of Digital Therapeutics (DTx).
  • Popcorn is also quite filling – this property is useful to keep you feeling full longer, thus preventing hunger and overeating.
Doudlah Farms – Growing Certified Organic, nutrient-rich foods with a focus on regenerative soil health and sustainable farming for a healthier future. Movie theater buckets drenched in butter or microwave bags loaded with artificial flavors don’t exactly qualify as the best diet foods. Eat popcorn as part of your healthy snacking routine to help curb hunger and support your nutrition goals. At Doudlah Farms, we believe snacking should be both healthy and enjoyable, and organic popcorn offers the perfect balance. Popcorn has been a popular snack for decades, but is popcorn good for you? Amidst these choices, the surprising duo of air-popped popcorn and cocoa powder emerges, offering a delightful and potentially weight-conscious combination. The airy crunch of popcorn combined with the rich, cocoa-infused flavor creates a satisfying snack that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. It is also important to remember that popcorn should not replace other nutritious foods in the diet. Instead of butter, try using avocado oil, which is a healthier fat option. While popcorn can be a healthy snack, it is important to practice portion control. However, it is important to choose a healthy oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, to avoid consuming unhealthy fats.

The Benefits of Popcorn for Weight Loss

Choosing translucent Ziplock bags for popcorn isn’t about finding the clearest or cheapest option—it’s about matching material science to your product’s physical behavior, your customers’ expectations, and your operational reality. Consumer-grade bags lack food-contact compliance for hot-fill applications, have untested zipper durability, and use inks/adhesives not approved for prolonged fat contact. Standard LDPE bags soften above 60°C and may leach low-molecular-weight additives when exposed to fats over time. Translucency in popcorn packaging isn’t merely aesthetic—it’s functional transparency with measurable performance implications. Translucent Ziplock-style bags for popcorn packaging sit at a critical intersection of food safety, consumer experience, and operational efficiency. But what if we told you that this tasty treat might actually be a helpful ally in your quest for a slimmer, healthier you? Her innovative programs address physical, emotional, and mental health, fostering a nurturing environment where clients can thrive and achieve their health goals. With a personalized approach, Andrea focuses on holistic health and well-being, ensuring each client receives tailored care and support. The main differences are that popcorn contains slightly more fiber yet less fat compared to corn on the cob. For best results, combine popcorn with a calorie controlled diet, intermittent fasting and regular exercise. And powdered ranch, nacho cheese or caramel popcorn seasoning can also pile on the calories quickly. For example, movie theater popcorn is typically popped in oil like coconut or canola oil and then pumped full of butter flavoring. You can air-pop it, then add a little bit of butter or good-tasting margarine on top afterward. And partially hydrogenated anything usually translates into some trans fats. Although some brands carry labels that say "no trans fats," their ingredient lists may say otherwise. These days, most of us enjoy the taste and convenience of microwave popcorn. That's right, popcorn is a whole grain! If you’re focused on getting to a healthy weight, exercising and eating a well-balanced diet may be at the top of your to-do list. Air-popped or lightly-oiled popcorn is low in calories and high in fiber. Pairing popcorn with a source of protein or healthy fat can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Consuming all of your calories in an eight- to 12-hour timeframe may help you drop pounds Rapid weight loss from the medication may decrease your overall muscle mass “You can top with cinnamon or other spices for flavor while keeping the calories low,” says Zumpano. Looking for another way to have dessert but make it healthy? And chickpeas have about 10 grams of protein and 6 grams of fiber per half cup.

What’s the evidence for the cabbage soup diet?

Stefani (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a NASM-certified personal trainer and the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Nutrition and Fitness Lab, where she oversees all nutrition and fitness-related content, testing and evaluation. Another option is to toss the popcorn in nut butter, or sprinkle on spices like cinnamon and salt. It also has hydrogenated soybean oil meant to mimic butter,” she adds. “Movie-style popcorn contains Flavacol— an ingredient containing salt, artificial butter flavor, Yellow #5 and Yellow #6. This will help you stay excited about incorporating popcorn into your diet while keeping things fresh and exciting. Better yet, air-pop your own popcorn at home and season it with herbs and spices for a guilt-free snack. Additionally, popcorn is filling, which means it can help curb hunger and reduce the likelihood of overeating. Remember to consume popcorn in moderation, as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle. Daily Holidays and Observances in January 2026 Unlike their refined counterparts, these crackers retain the bran, germ, and endosperm of the grain, providing more fiber, vitamins, and minerals 6. This balanced approach helps prevent overeating and keeps energy levels stable throughout the day. Avoid refined flour and sugary varieties, as they can spike blood sugar and increase hunger. Yes, you can eat crackers while trying to lose weight, but only if you make mindful choices. As with any packaged food, verify expiration dates and packaging integrity before consumption. With a relatively low-calorie count (31 calories per cup of air-popped popcorn), it’s been a favorite of folks who are looking to lose weight. Popcorn is a popular snack and can also be a healthy one as long as it’s prepared without adding lots of butter or salty toppings. Whether or not the snacks are healthy depends on the foods or beverages chosen and how they are prepared. Instead, consider incorporating popcorn into your diet 2-3 times per week as a healthy snack option. By incorporating popcorn into your pre-meal snack routine, you may find it easier to adhere to your diet and achieve your weight loss goals. While you may be used to serving salami on a cheeseboard or atop crackers, turning it into chips is even better. Whether you like salty, sweet, crunchy (or all three!), there are plenty of snack ideas here for you, wherever you work. Picture it—you're at your workplace (home, or the office, your fave coffee shop, wherever), and you don't have any snacks? Instead of things that need to be eaten right away or kept refrigerated, you’re going to want shelf-stable snacks that can sit out. Another key area where popcorn health benefits shine is blood sugar regulation. A major reason why experts praise popcorn health benefits is its antioxidant content. You might be surprised to learn that popcorn is actually one of the healthiest snacks you can include in your diet. Air-popped popcorn is a little higher in calories than the microwave fat-free varieties, with 31 calories per cup, but it's also sodium-free. Air-popped popcorn is a low-calorie, low-fat snack that can be a healthy addition to a weight loss diet. The key is to choose nutrient-dense foods that are low in calories and high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Choose minimally processed corn products, skip prepping it with butter or oil, and try pairing it with a protein, other fiber-rich foods, and healthy fats to feel more satisfied. Healthy diets that include whole grains may lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of developing obesity, and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease mortality. A better option may be to air-pop your own popcorn at home using a brown paper bag or a popcorn maker. If you do choose to eat microwave popcorn, make sure to check the nutrition label and ingredient list carefully. This can be especially helpful for those who struggle with portion control or overeating at meals. Plain air-popped popcorn, enjoyed in moderation and without excessive toppings, can be a healthy and satisfying snack that supports weight management. A successful weight loss strategy involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating popcorn into a weight loss diet can be a sustainable choice, provided it’s prepared and consumed mindfully. To keep it healthy, focus on air-popped popcorn and experiment with different seasonings to keep it interesting. Even though it is low in calories, too much can contribute to unwanted weight gain if it leads to exceeding daily caloric needs. This way, you can enjoy a delicious snack that aligns with your weight loss goals. Another reason popcorn is beneficial for weight loss is its versatility. The fiber in popcorn helps to keep you feeling full longer, which can reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day.
  • From a macronutrient perspective, popcorn on its own is an extremely low calorie food.
  • Although popcorn is low in calories, overindulging can compromise your weight loss goals.
  • That doesn’t mean that it is bad for you though, as long as you are watching your portion sizes and the amount of oil, butter, and salt.
  • Additionally, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to determine the best snack options for your individual needs.
  • The beneficial effects that we enjoy from jello are provided mainly by gelatin, as all the other ingredients work against weight loss most of the time.
  • The ketogenic or “keto” diet is a very low carb, high fat and moderate protein diet that puts your body into a state of ketosis for fat burning.
  • While popcorn is low in calories, it’s also surprisingly effective at helping us burn more calories.
Where you lose fat from first and most rapidly is influenced by genetics. In fact, a study published in the journal Appetite found that compared to potato chips, popcorn was significantly more filling. While popcorn is generally safe, some individuals with digestive conditions may experience discomfort. Fiber promotes feelings of fullness, which can help reduce overall calorie intake. It is important to note that the nutritional content can vary significantly based on preparation methods and added toppings.
  • However, it’s important to remember that popcorn alone is not a magic bullet for weight loss.
  • Check out these healthy popcorn recipes here.
  • This removes decision fatigue and ensures you always have a reliable, low-calorie snack available.
  • If you’re looking to make healthier snack choices, popcorn can be a satisfying and weight-loss-friendly option when enjoyed in moderation.
  • All you need is a tub of Vimto Clear Whey, fruit and some ice pop moulds and you’ll have your summer snacks covered.
  • Before reaching for a snack, drink a glass of water.
  • This makes it easier to eat fewer calories and be satisfied.
  • However, it’s essential to note that the way you prepare your popcorn can greatly impact its nutritional value.
Microwave popcorn can be a convenient option, but it’s essential to be cautious about the brands you choose. These alternatives not only add flavor but also offer additional health benefits, allowing you to indulge without guilt. Another option is to add spices and seasonings instead of butter or high-calorie toppings. You can also experiment with spices and seasonings to add flavor without adding significant calories. By opting for air-popping rather than oil-popping, you can keep the calorie count even lower. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these snack-able chickpeas are delicious as a crunchy topper for salads, creamy soups, or grain bowls, too. Lucky for you, we've figured out a perfect dupe for the iconic breakfast bites that will make you swear you shelled out $5 for a serving. Even if that cash is in exchange for their fluffy, cheesy protein-packed egg bites. Cosmic brownie protein bites are here for you.

The Calorie-Burning Benefits of Popcorn

Be cautious because once you start adding toppings, the calorie count goes up pretty quickly. Not only can you manage serving size, but you can also make it in under 10 minutes in most cases. Just make sure to add while warm so it sticks to the popcorn. Thermogenesis is the process by which our bodies generate heat, increasing our metabolic rate and burning more calories. Because it’s so filling and satisfying, we’re naturally inclined to stick to smaller, healthier portions. The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. If you don’t have seasoning, try some healthy alternatives like olive oil, salt and pepper. Air-popped means that popcorn is cooked using hot air instead of oil or butter. Vegetables, fruit and lean protein are naturally low in calories. One cup of popcorn can contain calories depending on the seasoning. Even low-calorie popcorn can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess. Always check the nutrition labels for hidden calories, especially with microwave and pre-packaged popcorn. These can contain as low as 50 calories per cup, bringing the total to about 150 calories for a typical serving.
Walking for Weight Loss
“Instead, you can add flavor by tossing the popcorn with some extra virgin olive oil, nutritional yeast or Parmesan cheese.” If you’re looking for a snack that has quantity and quality, look no further than air-popped popcorn. “And you want to watch how much you eat because trail mix can be high in calories. Skip the store-bought option that can be full of unnecessary fat and sugar, and mix up your own version of trail mix at home. Make sure you coat the popcorn with oil while it’s still hot, and then follow up with any dry ingredients. If you need some additional flavor, stick to small amounts of salt or a healthy oil. Most Americans know popcorn as a steadfast part of moviegoing culture, but it’s actually a popular snack all over the world. Its combination of high fiber, low-calorie density, and satisfying crunch makes it an excellent alternative to processed snacks that can derail your progress. Remember to choose toppings that are low in calories, salt, and added sugar to keep your snack healthy and nutritious. In the end, the popping truth is that popcorn can be a healthy and satisfying snack for weight loss – as long as you pop it wisely! Popcorn can be a part of a weight loss diet, but it’s essential to focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods as the foundation of your meal plan. Remember, weight loss is not just about individual snacks, but about maintaining a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet. These hidden calories can quickly add up, making popcorn a less-than-ideal snack for weight loss. Is air-popped popcorn suitable for people with dietary restrictions? As long as you’re consuming plain popcorn made from corn kernels, it is safe for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease. Gluten is a protein found in certain grains like wheat, barley, and rye, but corn is gluten-free. Additionally, fiber helps to stimulate the production of certain hormones that regulate appetite, including cholecystokinin (CCK) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). Additionally, many of these toppings are high in antioxidants and other nutrients, making them a great way to boost the nutritional value of air-popped popcorn. In comparison to other popcorn cooking methods, air-popped popcorn is also a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. Air-popped popcorn, on the other hand, is cooked using hot air, which preserves the natural nutrients and flavor of the popcorn kernels. Herbs and spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, or chili powderLemon juice or zestGrated cheese, such as parmesan or cheddarA drizzle of olive oil or avocado oil There are several types of popcorn kernels available, each with its own unique characteristics and nutritional profile.
Popcorn and Blood Sugar Control
However, by combining it with a healthy diet — and using it to solve those starving moments in between meals — you can see some real results. And the data shows popcorn remains unmatched for volume, fiber, and cost efficiency among whole grain snacks. Many marketed-as-healthy brands still pack in sodium or hidden sugars.
  • In fact, many people say that they can’t imagine going to the movies without a bag of popcorn.
  • Jello is rich in protein but has a low-calorie amount.
  • Experiment with different seasonings and toppings to find healthier alternatives to butter and salt.
  • In addition, Skinny Pop is also low in saturated fat (1 gram per serving), which is a type of fat that raises LDL cholesterol levels.
  • If you don’t have seasoning, try some healthy alternatives like olive oil, salt and pepper.
  • This can make it a good snack option when trying to limit excess calorie intake for weight loss.
The key is to keep your popcorn plain and unsalted, and then add your own healthy toppings or flavorings as needed. However, if you’re craving a snack before bed, a small serving of air-popped popcorn can be a better choice than many other options. To avoid overeating, consider portioning out your popcorn into individual serving sizes and savoring each bite slowly. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for proper digestion, immune function, and overall health, and can even play a role in weight management. This means that you’re less likely to reach for unhealthy snacks or overeat during meals. Incorporating popcorn into your diet can boost your metabolism and overall health. Thus, popcorn is highly recommended for achieving health benefits over any refined grain. Fibre is favourable for weight loss as it creates a feeling of fullness and helps control one's appetite, and popcorn contains significant amounts of it. When you consume a cup of air-popped popcorn, you are likely to gain about calories. Regular air-popped popcorn is typically low in calories. Beyond its calorie content, popcorn boasts an impressive nutritional profile, particularly when air-popped and minimally processed. A single cup typically contains around 31 calories, making it a significantly less calorie-dense option compared to other popular snacks like chips, crackers, or candy. However, it is essential to be mindful of portion sizes and toppings, and opt for air-popped or healthy oil-popped options. You can also use a small amount of healthy oil like avocado or coconut oil to add flavor and nutrition. Air-popping is the best way to prepare popcorn, as it is low in calories and added ingredients. The high-protein breakfast that keeps you full until lunch She recommends using her homemade chilli and lemon popcorn recipe if you’ve got the time. 'The one you make yourself at home with controlled amounts of oil and flavourings', says Azmina. If you're buying a pack, choose a serving size that gives you around 100kcal.' Noted. If you’re determined to get your popcorn fix every day, it looks like homemade is the best option. If you're taking Ozempic, consider avoiding high-sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and fried foods. From managing your diet to incorporating exercise, here's some practical advice for achieving your weight loss goals while on birth control. Not sure if you should consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for weight loss? These data in their totality indicate that both popcorn conditions resulted in greater satiety than potato chips. Additionally, the one cup popcorn condition resulted in less combined energy intake and incomplete mean energy compensation. One cup popcorn (15 kcal) did not elicit stronger VAS responses than one cup potato chips (150 kcal), but did elicit similar VAS responses (not statistically different) despite the 10-fold energy difference, suggesting that 15 kcal of popcorn was as satiating as 150 kcal of potato chips. The six cup popcorn condition exhibited greater satiety than potato chips based on the outcome measures of VAS ratings and combined energy intake. These data indicate that popcorn resulted in greater satiety than potato chips.
  • Air-popped popcorn is not inflammatory for most people and may even provide anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
  • Though most people discard these parts, nutritionists suggest embracing the entire kernel for maximum health benefits.
  • Overall, popcorn appears to be a nutritious and low-cost food that can support your health.
  • "I never thought I was fat until I got on TV and everyone told me how fat I was," she disclosed.
  • The RIs for fat, saturates, sugars and salt are all maximum amounts, while those for carbs and protein are figures you should aim to meet each day.
  • Air-popped popcorn is a more filling and satisfying snack compared to microwave popcorn, which is often lower in fiber and higher in calories.
  • You can buy low-fat popcorn options at the store or make your own at home using kernels.
Air-popped popcorn is low in calories and high in volume, allowing you to eat a satisfying amount without consuming too many calories. To add flavor without extra calories, sprinkle your popcorn with spices such as paprika, garlic powder, or nutritional yeast. This helps create a balanced snack that satisfies without excessive calories. Consider pairing your popcorn with nutrient-dense foods such as fruits or vegetables. Beet Chips That said, popcorn doesn’t have many other vitamins and nutrients, so it can’t completely replace fruits and veggies in your diet. One serving of popcorn can contain up to 300 mg of polyphenols, according to a prior study from the University of Scranton, which would account for 13 per cent of the average daily intake. The healthiest type of popcorn is air-popped, which only has 125 kilojoules per cup. Instead, Zellner recommends adding flavors to your popcorn at home with light butter, ghee, chili lime seasoning, pumpkin spice seasoning, and more. This strategy pairs well with approaches like coffee and weight loss, where strategic snacking supports overall calorie management. Incorporating popcorn into your weight loss plan requires intentional strategies that maximize benefits while preventing common pitfalls. For weight loss, the air-popped or lightly stovetop-popped varieties create a sustainable snacking option that allows you to eat substantial quantities while maintaining calorie control.
  • In fact, the complex carbohydrates in popcorn can help increase serotonin levels, which can promote relaxation and sleep.
  • Want to take the guesswork out of weight loss entirely?
  • Try air-popping it or using a small amount of heart-healthy oil, such as olive or avocado oil, to cook it.
  • For example, movie theater popcorn is often loaded with butter and salt, making it a high-calorie and high-sodium snack.
  • Additionally, air popped popcorn is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation in the body.
  • What is the healthiest way to eat popcorn?
  • By being mindful of your overall calorie intake and choosing air-popped popcorn, you can enjoy this tasty snack while still supporting your weight loss efforts.
  • Popcorn is not just a tasty snack, it's also packed with important nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Indeed, it’s hard to enjoy food when it is not seasoned correctly. Another supplement good for the eyes is Vitamin E, a great contributor to healthy, supple skin and shiny hair. Enough about the obvious health benefits – let’s get to the minute attributes. You win from all directions because you get to lose weight and enjoy a delicious snack. Practical Strategies for Weight Loss Success Programs like mine are designed not only to help you determine which snacks align with your goals but also to build a framework that helps you sustain progress. The key is to consult professionals who can tailor dietary suggestions based on your unique goals and nutritional requirements. For those who want a bit more flavor, adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast, known for its savory and cheesy taste, can enhance the snack’s nutritional value. However, it is purely a carbohydrate which can make it tricky to incorporate into a low carb diet. Most nutritionists would advise that it is fine to eat foods like Skinny Pop in moderation. Skinny Pop is considered a processed food, as it contains sunflower oil. Is it healthier than microwave popcorn? Whenever I’m in airports or gas stations, the one packaged food I can’t resist buying is ready-to-eat popcorn like Skinny Pop. (Pears or apples are also a smart snacking option.) Watermelon is over 90 percent water, according to Ehsani, so it offers tons of hydration as well as fiber to help fill you up. If you're allergic to nuts or prefer another option, you can also try sunflower butter which is packed with essential nutrients. Add a few berries on top for some added fiber and sweetness. They're easy to pack in your lunch box or paired with cheese, veggies, hummus, or peanut butter. Fiber plays a crucial role in weight management by promoting satiety, slowing gastric emptying, and supporting healthy gut microbiota. As a whole grain snack with impressive nutritional credentials, popcorn offers benefits that many processed alternatives simply cannot match. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide if skinny popcorn is the right snack for you. Salad is a deceptive name for this hearty dinner, which fills your belly with three of our favorite ingredients—shrimp, hard-boiled eggs, and creamy avocado, all topped with a tasty lime dressing. These chicken tacos are paired with a unique sauce that combines creamy peanut butter, tomatoes, chipotle chiles, adobo sauce, and chocolate chips. Peanut butter tastes delicious in more than just PB&Js. This vegetarian-friendly dinner is packed with protein from beans and Greek yogurt, and the sweet potatoes and kale provide vitamin B6 for an all-around nutritious dinner. You’ll also get a flavor punch from green olives, herbs, and lemon for the ultimate sheet-pan weight-loss meal. “However, since grams of fat are not a concern on a keto diet, added oil or butter would still allow this snack to be keto-friendly,” she adds. Overall, even if you’re not doing the keto diet, popcorn is a great snack for regular and weight loss-related diets alike, Zellner says. Just adding 30 calories to do your daily intake, popcorn offers a number of health benefits as well. To make popcorn a healthy snack for kids, try using herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt or sugar. You could argue that it’s not fair to compare a White Cheddar flavor to an “Original” flavor. To see why, let’s first take a look at the nutrition facts for Skinny Pop vs Smartfood. So in that sense, it’s quite processed—despite containing a whole grain. That doesn’t mean it’s as bad as Twinkies—but it’s processed. In some cases, hexane is also used to extract more oil from the seeds. In short, popcorn’s fiber content, low calorie profile, and whole grain nature make it a standout choice—when prepared the right way. This makes popcorn more filling than many other snack foods, helping to curb cravings. Curious to know whether popcorn belongs in your healthy snacking lineup? Keep in mind that while all the foods above fit into a low-carb, high-fat keto diet, you won’t see results on this diet unless you stick with it overall. As seen in the table, popcorn can be a satisfying snack without significantly contributing to your daily caloric intake. This snack isn’t about restriction—it’s about strategy. Usually loaded with artificial butter, hydrogenated oils, and mystery flavorings. Popcorn is a whole grain, providing dietary fiber that aids digestion and prolongs feelings of fullness. "Instead of reaching for chips, try air-popped popcorn," says Prof Joseph. Diet drinks may seem like a healthier option, but they can still trigger cravings for sweets. Make sure to consult your health professional before making any major adjustments in your lifestyle. When we eat fiber-rich foods like plain popcorn, the fiber helps to slow down digestion and absorption of nutrients. As you can see, plain popcorn is a relatively low-calorie snack that’s rich in fiber and whole grains. Before we get into the weight loss aspect, let’s take a look at the nutritional benefits of plain popcorn. Enter plain popcorn, a popular snack that’s often overlooked as a healthy option. Because it’s a whole grain that’s high in fiber and protein, it can be a nutritious and filling snack to include in your meal prep containers. A single cup of air-popped popcorn has only about 30 calories, yet its volume makes you feel fuller compared to other snack foods. Popcorn is naturally high in fiber and low in calories, making it an ideal food for healthy munching. The answer is yes—when prepared the right way, popcorn can be one of the best diet foods for people who want a crunchy, filling option without all the extra calories. Part of what makes the crunchy kernels a great weight loss food is the fact that popcorn is a whole grain, so it’s naturally high in filling fiber. Because the diet can also result in bodily changes like fat reduction, it’s marketed and sold as a weight loss method in the wellness industry, says Erica Zellner, LDN, a health coach at Parsley Health in California. To determine how many calories you expend on a daily basis, you also need to factor in your physical activities. This amount of energy required is measured in kilocalories, or often just denoted as calories. She also has an extensive background in teaching, writing, and editing, and loves natural foods cooking and working out. While it is still probably more nutritious and lower calorie than other kinds of junk food, it's still not as beneficial as the air-popped corn we talked about earlier. If you simply buy bags of high fat microwavable popcorn, swapping probably won't do much good. Even people who tend to rush through their food usually eat popcorn one piece at a time, or at most a few pieces. Eating popcorn also has another dieting benefit—it reprograms the body to slow down. There are relatively few snacks out there that are nutritious, delicious, and also low calorie. No content on this website is intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. The same also applies to the Butter flavor of Skinny Pop’s microwave popcorn—it’s clearly labeled as dairy-free, despite the “Butter” name. Skinny Pop Kettle Corn is less healthy than original Skinny Pop. As long as you take the muscle you are working to fatigue — meaning you can't lift another repetition — you are doing the work necessary to make the muscle stronger. When you can easily do more repetitions of a certain exercise, gradually increase the weight or resistance. Choose a weight or resistance level heavy enough to tire your muscles after about 12 to 15 repetitions. Your body fat percentage will increase over time if you don't do anything to replace the lean muscle you lose over time. Strength training is a key component of overall health and fitness for everyone.
  • You can also pair popcorn with other protein-rich snacks, such as Greek yogurt or hard-boiled eggs.
  • After eating probably 20 to 40 bags of this stuff myself, today I finally decided to do a deep dive into the nutrition.
  • Gluten intolerance is when you get sick after eating foods with gluten.
  • The steam builds pressure, causing the kernels to explode inside out, leaving behind the white fluffy food we are all familiar with.
  • Both choices are around 100 calories, but the larger portion of grapes will likely feel more satisfying as a snack.
  • This can be incredibly helpful when trying to manage your calorie intake.
Popcorn is high in carbs but has more fiber than other foods, which means it takes longer to digest and increases fullness––not ideal before training. “Movie theater popcorn can contain 400 to 1,200 calories, depending on the size and toppings.” To calculate your unique needs, take 5-6% of your total calories and divide the value by nine (the calories per gram of fat). According to the American Heart Association, at most 5-6% of total calories should come from saturated fats. Commercially prepared popcorn (including microwave popcorn) is often loaded with oils rich in saturated and trans fats to enhance the taste. Pour about 1 tablespoon or two of olive, walnut or avocado oil (avoid coconut, flax, and palm oils, which are high in saturated fats) in a deep saucepan, and swirl it around. “It’s low in calories, about 90 calories a cup and is fast and easy to make,” says Cohen. Whether you’re craving a quick afternoon snack or need something to munch on while you binge-watch Netflix, popcorn may be your go-to snack. “The soluble fiber in popcorn removes some cholesterol from your body,” says Culbertson. Whether you have diabetes or you’re trying to prevent it, popcorn can be a smart snack choice. “Eating fiber improves gut health because it feeds the friendly bacteria in your gut that keep things balanced.” “A healthy gut can lead to better metabolism, immunity and brain health,” says Culberston. Its high fiber content promotes satiety, meaning it helps you feel full for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Popcorn, in its pure form, is actually a relatively low-calorie and high-fiber snack. By making smart choices about preparation methods, toppings, and portion sizes, you can enjoy popcorn as a guilt-free treat that fits into a healthy lifestyle. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. This method of preparation allows the natural flavors and nutrients of the popcorn to shine through, making it a popular choice for health-conscious snackers. When having popcorn, be it during a bulk or cut, measure the portion to know precisely how many calories and carbs you are having. Eating a variety of whole grains ensures that you get more health-promoting nutrients. Make at least half the grains in your diet whole grains. The vitamins and minerals in whole grains are important for your overall health. Skip the microwaved or store-bought options and opt for air-popped popcorn instead. Popcorn is a whole grain food, made from a type of corn called zea mays everta. We believe that food is not just a necessity, but an experience that should be savored and enjoyed. At Taste Pursuits, we are passionate about all things cooking and food. But when you check out the nutrition labels on some types of microwave popcorn (like the "movie theatre" flavor), you'll notice a big jump in fat and calories. It contains 7g of sugar per serving, which raises the total calories, as well as the glycemic load. That said, Skinny Pop also contains quite a bit sunflower oil, which makes it less healthy than oil-free air-popped popcorn.