All too often it can be loaded with salt, sugar, and excess fat.
(Think: movie theater buttered popcorn and kettle corn from the fair.)
In fact,research suggestspopcorn is a favored snack since it tends to be salty.
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Popcorn Nutrition
Popcorn results from corn kernels that have expanded or, well, popped.
However, as mentioned earlier, the nutrient profile of popcorn can vary greatly depending on its preparation.
But overall, popcorn specifically, the plain air-popped kind is healthy, based on the benefits below.
Increases Satiety
If you’re on a mission tostave off hangerbetween meetings, reach for popcorn.
ICYMI above, popcorn is teeming withfiber, a bang out of carbohydrate.
And fiber helps increase satiety, or the feeling of fullness and satisfaction, according to Jones.
Popcorn also acts like a sponge in your gut, where it soaks up water and expands.
In turn, you’ll be more likely to feel satiated for a long time after noshing on popcorn.
Promotes Regular Bowel Movements
As mentioned, popcorn is a fiber-rich food.
It’s especially high in insoluble fiber, which attracts water in the gut, says Jones.
So, Is Popcorn a Healthy Snack?
In short, yes, popcorn is a healthy snack.
This way, you’re able to control how it’s prepared and what additional ingredients are used.
You could even add your own seasonings to plain store-bought popcorn for a quick and healthy snack.
And if you do want to enjoy some microwave or movie theater popcorn?
That’s totally fine, says Doebrich.
