Is Popcorn Fattening?
There are those who wonder if popcorn is fattening, especially those who fear gaining weight. Now, what is the truth in that? Can you consume this food if you follow a diet?
Regarding this issue there are myths and controversies, however nutritionists recommend it as a healthy option, because it is a snack that can provide benefits for the body. Read on and find out more about it.
Are fat popcorn?
Popcorn comes from a variety of this grain called popcorn. When exposed to heat, they explode due to overheating of the water and starch they contain. This is how this spongy mass with a characteristic aroma is formed.
In fact, due to their easy preparation, they are consumed in many countries, ideal to accompany movies or as a snack . Now, why are they thought to get fat?
Perhaps this is associated with the fact that the popcorn that is marketed in general has added energy value. That is, they have higher amounts of salt, sugar, caramel or even butter, unlike those made at home.
Thus, when they are made for own consumption, only oil is used so that they do not stick and then they are flavored according to personal taste. To answer this question, a study published in the journal Antioxidants analyzed its composition and suggested that 1 cup of this homemade snack provides only 30 calories.
How to do them?
Write down the following recipe if you have never made them. You will need 2 tablespoons of oil, a large pot with a lid, and a half cup of popcorn. In less than 5 minutes you can enjoy them.
- The first thing you should do is heat the oil in a pot over medium heat.
- When you notice that it has reached temperature, add the corn mixing it in the oil and cover the pot.
- You will hear the corn start to pop abruptly. Wait for the noise to stop to make sure it’s ready.
- To flavor, add sugar, salt, caramel, some spice or you can eat it natural. Remember that if you are looking for nutritional quality, it is not recommended that you exceed the additions.
What nutrients does popcorn provide?
In addition to being a practical and inexpensive option, popcorn provides different substances. Regarding nutrients, they contain carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fats and proteins. Thus, they also have vitamins and minerals. According to data extracted from Nutrition Data, they have the following components:
- Vitamin B1, B3 and B6.
- Vitamin E.
- Minerals, such as iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and copper.
- Phosphorus and potassium.
- Fiber.
- Polyphenols.
Additionally, science suggests that among the grains of oats, wheat and rice, corn has superior antioxidant capacity, due to its contribution of phenolic compounds (chemicals that protect cells). Fortunately, the burst caused by cooking does not degrade or alter them.
What benefits can its consumption bring?
Although many people do not know it, the consumption of popcorn can provide important benefits to the body because it is a whole grain. Due to the nutrients they provide, they contribute to overall health and well-being. Here are some positive effects.
Weight and digestion control
Popcorn is an option for those who want to calm the feeling of hunger, because in addition to being low in calories, dietary fiber has a satiating effect. In this way, as inclusions between meals they reduce the appetite.
This affects the control of body weight. Likewise, those who ingest them can improve the functioning of intestinal transit, reducing flatulence as peristalsis adapts.
Disease prevention
The fiber content and the presence of phenolic compounds act by reducing blood cholesterol, which prevents the formation of atheroma plaque. This is a protective factor against arteriosclerosis, which translates into lower cardiovascular risk.
In addition, they lower blood pressure when consumed without salt and normalize glucose. In fact, studies suggest that the prevention of heart disease is also expressed in a reduction in the risk of suffering from diabetes, again considering the presence or absence of aggregates, such as sugars.
Popcorn is not fattening
It’s time you stopped thinking that popcorn will make you gain weight. Remember that they are recognized for being a healthy and comprehensive alternative compared to other snacks. Above all, they have a low caloric intake and nutrients that contribute to your well-being.
If you are looking to satisfy hunger, control weight or even calm anxiety, you can consume them. Of course, try to avoid those that the market offers you, since the additions are harmful. Go ahead and make the homemade preparations.
