You’ve probably heard by now that most of the popcorn we eat is not healthy for us. They can be drenched in butter, artificial colors, and, of course, preservatives. However, what if you found out that popcorn, the snack we all love, can actually help you shed some pounds? It sounds too good to be true, right? Nutritionists say this crunchy and savory treat can be your new sidekick when it comes to weight loss. So grab some healthy popcorn, and let’s find out what type we should actually be eating and how it can aid in losing weight.
We spoke with nutritionist Mary Sabat, MS, RDN, LD, from BodyDesigns Ltd. to find out more about this good news. She shared with us that air-popped popcorn is the recommended choice for every-day consumption.
Air-Popped Popcorn
Sabat simply states that, "This type of popcorn is low in calories, high in fiber, and has a satisfying crunch." Compared to packaged popcorn we see on store shelves, this type of popcorn doesn't have all the additives that do no good to our bodies. "Avoid pre-packaged microwave popcorn, as they often contain added oils, butter, and artificial flavors that can increase calorie intake," Sabat says. As for how air-popped popcorn can help us slim down, there are a couple reasons for this: low-calorie content, high-fiber content, and satiation are the key factors that play a role.
Sabat explains by saying, "Air-popped popcorn is naturally low in calories, making it a guilt-free snack option. On average, one cup of air-popped popcorn contains only about 30-40 calories. Popcorn is a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes feelings of fullness and helps control appetite. The fiber content aids digestion, supports gut health, and may reduce the risk of overeating. Popcorn is a high-volume food, meaning you can consume a larger portion size for fewer calories. The act of chewing and the volume of popcorn can contribute to a sense of fullness, reducing the desire to snack on calorie-dense foods." Overall, it's still essential to read food labels, as any manufactured food item can still have fats and sugars added to it despite being considered healthy.
This healthy popcorn option can be great for snacking while on a path to losing weight, but portion controls still apply here. "It is recommended to consume popcorn in moderation and be mindful of the toppings or seasonings used. Aim for around 3-4 cups of air-popped popcorn per serving, as excessive intake may lead to a higher caloric load and hinder weight loss goals," Sabat suggests.
The Bottom Line
While incorporating this nutritious snack into your diet can be a great idea, it's still important that your individual nutritional needs are put first before relying on certain foods for weight loss results. Sabat ends by saying, "While popcorn can be a satisfying and nutritious snack, it should not be considered a sole solution for weight loss. A holistic approach that includes a well-rounded diet, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices is necessary for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight."
