Table of contents:
- Types of popcorn
- Popcorn without added ingredients
- Popcorn with added ingredients
- How to serve healthy popcorn
- Conclusion
Do you like popcorn? This one snack is indeed a favorite of many people, especially if it is enjoyed while watching a favorite movie. However, is popcorn really healthy for consumption?
When analyzed as a whole, popcorn can be classified as a food that is free of gluten and 100% whole grains. Popcorn is also a food source that is rich in fiber and is naturally sugar and salt free. So, it can be said that popcorn is a healthy snack, especially if it is processed properly.
Types of popcorn
Popcorn without added ingredients
This is popcorn that is processed by a special machine with steam pressure. When served this way, each glass of popcorn contains only 30 calories. Steam-processed popcorn also has a low glycemic index of only 55.
Because this type of popcorn is not added by oil, the results will be healthier for the body. Besides popcorn also contains nutrients that are useful for the body such as folate, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, iron, fiber, vitamins B6, A, E, and K. Popcorn also has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Popcorn with added ingredients
Popcorn is another type of popcorn that is processed with oil. This type of popcorn is usually made at home using a pot and stove. The sugar and salt levels are still minimal, but the oil content adds about 5 to 15 calories per glass.
Alternatively, you can buy packaged popcorn at the supermarket and heat it at home with microwave. Healthy or not, of course, depends on the content contained in each product. But the good news is, you can now find packaged popcorn products that are free of butter and salt. Even products that contain butter and salt don't have excessive calories.
Finally, the popcorn, which is perhaps the least health-friendly, is the popcorn you usually buy at the cinema. This type of popcorn usually contains a lot of butter and salt which produces saturated fat in the body.
How to serve healthy popcorn
- Use a special steam-powered popcorn maker machine: this way your popcorn contains no added fat, salt, and sugar.
- Use healthy oils: If you want to use oil, use oil that is good for health. Coconut oil is a good choice for the body, besides this oil also adds flavor and aroma to your popcorn.
- Choose organic products: organic corn kernels will be free from pesticides and other toxic residues.
- Use toppings which is healthy: You don't have to always use butter to go with your popcorn. Try experimenting with toppings others like pepper, cocoa powder, or even ground cinnamon.
- Add vegetables: Vegetables and popcorn? A combination that may sound strange to you. However, you can try roasting vegetables such as kale, spinach, or other leafy greens until they are crispy. After that, crush the vegetables into a powder, then you can sprinkle them on top of the popcorn you made yourself.
- Watch your meal portions: Even though popcorn is included in a low-calorie food, you still have to watch your portions. Try measuring the popcorn into a small bowl before eating it to limit the amount you eat.
Conclusion
Popcorn can be a healthy snack option if processed properly. Its low glycemic index and high fiber and nutrient content make this food the perfect light meal for maintaining your weight.
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