Plain Popcorn = Healthy or Unhealthy?

I've heard a lot of websites talking about how popcorn is unhealthy, but mostly these websites are discussing popcorn with heavy amounts of seasoning and fats added to them. Obviously, the additives add to the calorie count. However, being a popcorn lover, I was wondering what kind of health benefits plain popcorn has without the oil, butter, and seasoning added to it. Is it a healthy carb? Is it something like white bread that will just break down into sugar the minute I digest it? Are there actual nutrients to popcorn itself? Any knowledge would be great! Thanks.

Answer

Very healthy. It’s a whole grain and full of nutrients. Try it with some olive oil instead of butter. I add nutritional yeast- which has a cheesy delicious flavor imo but not everyone is a fun- it adds more protein fiber and vitamins!

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Just make sure to buy the plain kernels and not the microwave popcorn. The microwave popcorn bags have a lot of additives. You can still microwave the plain kernels in a paper bag or microwave bowl (with a lid).

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Foods aren’t healthy or unhealthy. Food is food. Lifestyles and behaviors can be healthy or unhealthy. You can always look at the label on the box if you want to see what nutrients a certain food offers

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Healthy snack, just be mindful of toppings. If you live near Trader Joe’s, they have Organic popcorn kernels ($2.49/nyc) and that lasts me a good 3-6 months if I have popcorn twice a week.

Favorite: Air popped, sprayed with olive oil & herb seasonings.

Answer

it’s just empty calories. sure maybe you get a few grams of protein and some fiber but there aren’t “benefits” to eating corn compared to most other vegetables. i’m not in the manic mood to look up every vegetable right now but i’m willing to bet corn has one of the lowest nutrient-per-calorie ratios of any veg.