Popcorn (popped corn kernels) contains a lot of polyphenol antioxidants and fiber. Scientific research recommends eating it in moderation and without adding a lot of salt, oils and other fats.
Dr. Nevin Bashir (a lecturer in nutrition and meal planning, a specialist in organic chemistry, and holds a doctorate in food engineering and biotechnology) stresses the necessity of avoiding popcorn from abroad, or ready-made popcorn that is popped in the microwave. She talks to Sayidaty about the health benefits of popcorn and its effect on weight in the following topic
Popcorn is a healthy snack but?
Popcorn is a healthy snack, as it is very rich in dietary fiber.
Women can eat 3 cups (a cup is 240 mg) of plotted popcorn at home, and not from the ready popcorn used in the microwave, because it usually contains a lot of fats, oils and salt.
If it is a bottle at home in the healthy way, you can consume 3 cups as a light meal, all of which contain only 80 calories.
But as a nutritionist, I always recommend that the types of snacks be chosen from outside the carbohydrate category, and popcorn is considered among this category. Because providing the body with a light meal of carbohydrates contributes to a high level of insulin in the blood, to return and fall again; Which makes us feel more hungry in later periods.
So, I suggest that the light meal be half the avocado, for example, 4 half of the walnuts, or 5 raw almonds and other unintegrated and unintegrated nuts.
But this does not mean that popcorn is not a good option as a light meal, but it is preferable to diversify, and not only depend on popcorn as snacks regularly
The health benefits of popcorn are many
Popcorn protects the heart: Some scientific studies have shown that polyphenols found in abundance in popcorn protect the body from cardiovascular diseases, which makes popcorn great for heart health.
Popcorn is beneficial for eye health: Corn contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for protecting the eyes from age-related macular degeneration.
Popcorn is beneficial for the digestive system: Because it contains a high amount of dietary fiber, popcorn enhances the digestive process and provides a feeling of comfort in the digestive system.
Popcorn is beneficial for bone health: Corn grains contain a large amount of phosphorus and other minerals that are beneficial for bones.
Popcorn is a source of energy: Corn contains vitamin B, which is very useful in regulating a number of vital processes that take place in the body, and is useful for producing energy and stimulating the metabolism process.
Popcorn to prevent some types of cancer: Corn kernels contain ferulic acid. Studies have proven the importance of this acid in eliminating some cancer cells.
Popcorn reduces depression: Vitamin B3, or niacin, is known for its ability to reduce depression, which makes eating popcorn friendly to your mental health.
Popcorn and some allergic reactions
Dr. Nevin Bashir indicated that some people may be allergic to popcorn, and some symptoms may appear, such as: swelling of the mouth or difficulty breathing.
Popcorn is among the list of nutrients that cause allergic symptoms in patients suffering from intestinal inflammation.
Therefore, anyone who shows symptoms should stop eating popcorn.
Popcorn is not recommended by dentists
Popcorn may lead to direct damage to teeth, according to a large number of dentists, due to not paying attention when eating popcorn, as the chances of eating hard kernels of corn that have not been popped increase, which may lead to fracture of teeth and molars.
In addition, corn husks when eating popcorn settle in very narrow places between the gums and teeth, and it becomes very difficult to extract them, increasing the chances of the gums becoming infected with infections and abscesses.