Four Good Reasons (Excuses) to Eat Popcorn

Popcorn seems to have gotten a lot of bad rep lately but I’m here to tell you quite the opposite. All those bad things you here about popcorn are true, if it’s the popcorn you get at the movies or those microwave popcorns. Those things are full of processed chemicals and fake harmful flavors. The truth is, if you pop your own popcorn using an air popper or a pot with a little bit of oil or grass fed butter, it’s a great snack to satisfy cravings, keep you full and is a great bed-time snack while lazing away at the TV.

Improves digestive health

Since it is a whole grain, popcorn is a great source of fiber, which we all know is important for your digestive health. Just 50 grams of popcorn contains 7 grams of fiber at only 185 calories. That’s a good deal!

Improves cholesterol levels

Due to its high fiber content, popcorn can help your body lower the levels of the bad (LDL) cholesterol in your blood. This greatly improves your cardiovascular health and reduces the risks of clogged arteries which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Popcorn can save your life!

Good source of anti-oxidants

The hulls of the popcorn have been found to contains large amounts of polyphenolic compounds, a strong antioxidant. Anti-oxidants, as we all know, help the body fight free radicals which damage to the cells of the body causing faster aging along with many other diseases and a weakened immune system. Some researchers have suggested that popcorn has more anti-oxidants than some fruits and veggies.

Nutrient dense

It’s not just a great source of fiber. Popcorn also has a significant amount of protein; 50 grams of popcorn has 6 grams of protein. It also has more iron than spinach and eggs and a healthy amount of phosphorus.

As you can see, popcorn is a great, healthy and cheap snack that can fill in the gaps in your daily nutritional goals. It’s a great food for those looking to lose weight and an easy source of fiber. Just make sure not to drown it with butter and salt as it will just negate the positive effects of this grain. Although a little grass-fed butter and quality sea-salt never hurt anybody.