Health Benefits of Hot Air Popcorn
Hot air popcorn refers to popcorn kernels that are popped using a hot air machine rather than by roasting or microwaving. This method allows the kernels to pop without adding any preservatives or condiments that would lessen the health benefits of popcorn. When eaten alone, popcorn has many healthy benefits such as vitamins, protein, fiber, and minerals.
Necessary Nutrients
Popcorn is a great snack for many reasons. One is that it contains over 40 different nutrients that are recommended by medical professionals to intake on a daily basis. Popcorn, as a grain, has more protein than any other whole grain. The outer layers of the popcorn, including the hull, are good sources of protein, iron, and phosphorous. Popcorn contains more iron content than spinach or eggs. It also has more phosphorus and fiber than baked chips or pretzels.
Healthy Snack
The American Dental Association lists popcorn as a recommended sugar-free snack. On the ADA's list, popcorn is ranked next to common diet foods such as yogurt, nuts, and celery. Popcorn is a sugar-free and fat free snack that is also low in calories. Unbuttered, unsalted popcorn contains between 25 and 55 calories per serving. (One serving of popcorn is considered between 1/2 and 1 cup of popped popcorn.) Popcorn is also listed with the American Diabetes Association as a possible starch substitute on their controlled diets because of its sugar-free, high fiber content.
Digestion
Popcorn is a source of fiber which allows it to assist your body in its digestive process. Fiber helps break down food and move it through our intestines. Popcorn is considered roughage, a necessary fiber to encourage digestion. Because popcorn is a good source of fiber, iron, and protein, and also assists the body in digestion while being low in calories, the American Diabetes Association allows bread to be exchanged for a serving of popcorn on its weight control diets.
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