True Or False: Do You Gain Weight From Popcorn?
Do you gain weight from popcorn? The answer to this question is important for those who are afraid of gaining weight or who want to lose weight. So what’s the truth about that? Can you eat this food if you are on a diet?
There are myths and controversies about popcorn. However, nutritionists recommend it as a healthy option because it is a snack that can provide benefits to the body. Read on and discover more about it.
Do you gain weight from popcorn?
Popcorn comes from a variety of types of corn. When exposed to heat, it explodes due to overheating of the water and starch it contains. This creates this spongy mass with its characteristic aroma.
Because of its easy processing , popcorn is popular in many countries, ideal for movies or as a snack. Do you gain weight from eating popcorn though?
Well, it depends. Commercial popcorn generally has an added energy value. That is, it contains higher amounts of salt, sugar, caramel or even butter, unlike the popcorn we make at home.
However, if you make your own popcorn at home, it can be a healthy snack. A study published in the journal Antioxidants analyzed its composition and found that 1 cup of this homemade snack contains only 30 calories!
How do you make sure it doesn’t happen?
If you’ve never made popcorn before, write down the following recipe. You will need 2 tablespoons of oil, a large pan with a lid and half a cup of popcorn. You can enjoy the results in less than 5 minutes!
- The first thing to do is heat the oil in a pan over medium heat.
- If you find it is already hot, add the corn, mix it with the oil and cover the pan.
- You will hear the corn suddenly begin to burst. Wait for the sound to stop to make sure it’s done.
Add sugar, salt or herbs of your choice for the taste… or you can eat it purely natural. Remember, if you’re looking for good nutritional value, don’t overdo it with additives.
What nutrients does popcorn contain?
Popcorn is not only a practical and inexpensive option, it also has several nutritional benefits. It contains carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fats and proteins. It also contains vitamins and minerals. According to Nutrition Data , popcorn has the following components:
- Vitamin B1, B3 and B6
- Vitamin E
- Minerals, such as iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc and copper
- Phosphorus and Potassium
- Fiber
- Polyphenols
Moreover, science suggests that corn has the best antioxidant capacities compared to oats, wheat and rice grains. This is because it provides phenolic compounds (chemicals that protect cells). Fortunately, the bursting caused by heating does not reduce or alter them.
What are the benefits of eating it?
Although many people don’t know it, eating popcorn may provide certain health benefits because it is a whole grain. Due to the nutrients it contains, it contributes to general health and well-being. Here are some benefits of eating popcorn.
Weight and Digestion Control
Popcorn is a great option for people who want to satisfy their hunger pangs. That’s because dietary fiber is not only low in calories, but also has a filling effect.
As a snack between meals, it can reduce your appetite. Of course, this has repercussions on body weight control. Those who eat popcorn can also improve intestinal transit function, reducing flatulence.
Disease Prevention
The fiber content of popcorn and the presence of phenolic compounds work by lowering blood cholesterol levels. This, in turn, prevents the formation of atheroma plaque. This is a protective factor against atherosclerosis, which translates into a lower cardiovascular risk.
Popcorn also lowers blood pressure when consumed without salt and normalizes glucose. Studies even indicate that the prevention of cardiac pathologies is also reflected in a decrease in the risk of diabetes, given the absence of added sugars.
So are you gaining weight from popcorn?
It’s time to stop thinking popcorn is making you gain weight. Remember that nutritionists consider it a healthy and complete alternative to other snacks. Best of all, it’s low in calories and contains nutrients that contribute to your well-being.
If you want to satisfy your hunger, manage your weight or even calm your nervousness, popcorn is an excellent choice. Of course, try to avoid the additives offered on the market, as the additives are harmful. So go ahead and make your own popcorn!
