Is Eating Popcorn Regularly Bad for Health?

Popcorn is a snack that is commonly found in cinemas. Even so, this snack made from corn kernels is often associated with dangerous diseases, one of which is cancer. Is popcorn really bad for health? Check out the explanation below.

Nutritional Content Popcorn

Please note, this confectionary is included food whole grains so it contains lots of important nutrients, such as:

• Vitamin B complex (B1, B3, B6)
• Iron
• Magnesium
• Phosphor
• Potassium
• Zinc
• copper
• Manganese

In total in 100 grams (equivalent to 3 cups) popcorn contained:

• 387 calories.
• 13 grams of protein.
• 78 grams of carbohydrates.
• 5 grams of fat.

The thing that stands out from this food is a source of fiber in it, which is about 15 grams. This is what makes it as one of the best sources of fiber.

Is Eating Popcorn Healthy?

Glycemic index (GI) Its low nutritional value and high nutritional content make this food a healthy snack choice. Even so, this is if popcorn processed in a good way.

Popcorn actually foods that are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The heavy fiber content and low number of calories in this snack are also believed to help you lose weight.

Besides, inside popcorn contains large amounts of polyphenols. This compound is an antioxidant that functions to protect body cells from free radicals and has the potential to reduce the risk of digestive disorders, heart diseaseto cancer.

However, popcorn will be unhealthy if the presentation is added with excess butter, sugar, salt, or flavoring ingredients. The addition of these ingredients can cause calories and saturated fat content in popcorn soared.

Also Read: 12 Ways to Lose Weight, Healthy and Easy to Do

Healthy Tips for Consuming Popcorn

Although it can be harmful to health; especially if you consume it too often, it turns out that you can make popcorn healthy snack for diet

Here are some tips on consuming it to make it healthier, including:

1. Cook In A Hot Pot

Consuming popcorn which is cooked directly using a hot pot is healthier, because it is low in fat and calories.

2. Use Healthier Oils

Avoid margarine or butter when processing popcorn. To be healthier, while cooking popcorn use a healthier type of oil. For example coconut oil which adds a delicious taste and aroma.

3. Don’t add too much seasoning

If you want to add flavor to popcorn, try ground pepper, cocoa powder pure or cinnamon powder. Avoid excess salt, seasonings, and added sugar.

4. Choose Organic Corn Grains

In order to benefit popcorn to the fullestchoose organic corn kernels that are free from pesticides and other harmful residues.

5. Add Vegetables and Other Spices

Try cooking vegetables such as broccoli, spinach and other dark green leafy vegetables with air fryerthen crush the dried greens and sprinkle them over the top popcorn that you make yourself.

It doesn’t hurt to add leaves either parsley chopped. This method will add taste, aroma, and of course nutrition.

6. Eat with Ideal Portions

Even though it is a low-calorie food, you still have to watch your portions. Popcorn consumed in excess can actually cause accumulation of calories and lead to weight gain.

Before eating, try to measure it into small bowls to limit servings at one time.

Also read: 11 Healthy Snacks for Diet (Easy to Get)

The Dangers of Eating Popcorn for Health

Not a few people who consume microwave popcorn packaged in a packing bag.

These sacs are usually coated with a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is often associated with many health problems, including ADHD, thyroid problems, to low birth weight.

This type of popcorn can also contain diacetyl, chemicals that are often used as raw materials for artificial butter and have the potential to damage the respiratory tract.

Not to mention, these pouches are also made using hydrogenated oils which contain harmful trans fats. In fact, consuming trans fats is closely related to an increased risk of heart disease and other serious diseases.

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