Are Fat Popcorn?

Popcorn is an easy-to-prepare snack, so many people consume it regularly. But is it true that they get fat? In this article, we talk about it. Some wonder if popcorn makes them fat, especially those who fear gaining weight. Now, what is true about it? Can this food be consumed if you follow a diet to lose weight? Regarding this issue, there are myths and controversies. However, nutritionists recommend it as a healthy option because it is an appetizer that can benefit the body. Read on and find out more about it.

Are they fat popcorn?

Popcorn comes from a variety of popcorn called popcorn. When exposed to heat, they explode due to overheating the water and the 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 do you think they get fat? Perhaps this is associated with the fact that popcorn sold already prepared or ready to be heated in the microwave generally has a high energy value. In addition, they are usually made with considerable amounts of salt, sugar, caramel, and/or butter. For both reasons, they have almost always entered the group of foods or products that are not recommended. Thus, when made for their consumption, only oil is used so 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. It is a quick and easy way to prepare this tasty snack in a few minutes.

Ingredients needed:

• Two tablespoons of olive oil.
• Half a cup of corn for popcorn.
• A large pot with a lid.

Preparation:

• To begin with, put the pot on the fire with the olive oil. When it’s hot, add the corn and put the lid on.
• The grains will begin to swell in a few minutes, perceived with a characteristic noise, like small flashes or “explosions.”
• When the sound begins to calm down, the popcorn can be ready. If any kernels of corn haven’t puffed up yet, they could shoot out of the pot. It is advisable to carefully lift the lid before removing them.
• Add a little salt to taste. To obtain other flavors, aromatic herbs or spices can be used. The sweet touch would be achieved with a little cocoa powder or cinnamon. It is preferable not to add sugar or caramel to the popcorn to maintain its nutritional quality.

What nutrients does popcorn provide?

In addition to being a practical and economical option, popcorn provides different substances. Regarding nutrients, they contain carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fats, and proteins. 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 include iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and copper.
• Phosphorus and potassium.
• Fiber.
• Polyphenols.

On the other hand, the cited study published in the journal Antioxidants suggests that corn has a higher antioxidant capacity than oats, wheat, and rice grains. This is due to its contribution to phenolic compounds (chemical substances that protect cells). Fortunately, the explosion caused by cooking does not degrade or alter them.

What benefits can its consumption bring?

Although many people do not know it, popcorn consumption can be part of a healthy and balanced diet and is not incompatible with weight loss. Included in the framework of a healthy diet can even bring important benefits to the body. However, it must be taken into account that the amount of corn used in a serving of popcorn is not very high. Here are some of the positive effects that eating popcorn can have.

Control of weight and digestion

Popcorn is an option for those who want to calm the feeling of hunger because dietary fiber has a satiating effect in addition to being low in calories. In this way, including between meals manages to reduce appetite. This affects the control of body weight. Likewise, those who ingest them can improve the functioning of intestinal transit, reducing flatulence by adjusting peristalsis.

Disease prevention

The fiber content and the presence of phenolic compounds reduce blood cholesterol and its possible oxidation, preventing the formation of atheromatous plaque.

This is a protective factor against arteriosclerosis, which translates into lower cardiovascular risk.

In addition, they reduce blood pressure when consumed without salt and normalize glucose. The author above’s Coco and Vinson point out that the prevention of cardiac pathologies is also expressed in a reduction in the risk of suffering from diabetes, again considering the presence or not 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 as a healthy and comprehensive alternative to other snacks. Above all, their low caloric intake and nutrients contribute to your well-being. You can consume if you want to satisfy hunger, control weight, or even calm anxiety. Of course, try to avoid those the market offers since the additives are harmful. Go ahead and make homemade preparations.