TEN Reasons Why You Should Eat Popcorn

The main reason that people love going to the movies is because of the popcorn. There is something magical about walking into the lobby of your favorite theater, and smelling the warm and inviting smell of hot buttery popcorn. High concession prices be darned! Popcorn is practically synonymous with the movie-going experience. And while many people will warn you against eating buckets and buckets of the stuff, what is never addressed are all the reasons WHY you should include popcorn into your diet, or at the very least indulge occasionally.

1. POPCORN IS HIGH IN FIBER- Eating bran, whole grains, and oats is not the only way to get fiber. Many do not realize that popcorn actually has more fiber than snacks with refined flour. Popcorn is made from a seed, which is actually a whole grain. Therefore when popped, it’s considered to contain as much fiber as other grainy treats.
2. POPCORN PREVENTS HUNGER- Salty chips and chewy candy bars are good ways to alleviate that snacky feeling. Because popcorn is a fibrous food, it’s heavy enough to make one feel full, but light enough to stave off hunger and prevent overindulging at meal time.
3. POPCORN IS LOW IN CALORIES – Provided that there is actually more popcorn than butter in your bucket, this snack is considerably lower in calories than other “convenience” foods.
4. POPCORN CONTAINS ZERO SODIUM – Yes, popcorn is completely sodium free. It’s difficult to think of popcorn as a sodium-free food. But that is only because people tend to over-salt and over-season their food.
5. POPCORN HAS NO SUGAR – Unlike other snacks like cookies, candy and chips, popcorn has no sugar in it. So you don’t have to worry about annoying sugar highs and subsequent “crashes.”
6. POPCORN IS A FAT-FREE SNACK – Again, this claim can only be made under the assumption that you add no butter whatsoever. Quite frankly, the natural flavor of popcorn is such that one really does not need many further additives.
7. POPCORN IS A GOOD STARCH “EXCHANGE” – Some diabetics watching their blood sugar levels often have to cut certain items from their diets, such as starches (which tend to spike blood sugar levels). As a replacement for crackers, croutons, and other breads, popcorn makes a great garnishment for soups and salads. Seasoned with herbs and spices can also add a bit of zest to the treat.
8. POPCORN MAKES YUMMY DESSERTS – If you’re not completely worried about calories, fat, or the like, you’ll find that popcorn can make for a fairly tasty dessert. Try making Popcorn Caramel Apples: Prepare caramel apples as usual (complete with popsicle stick, caramel, heat, —you know the rest…). Place the caramel-coated apple into a bowl of popcorn. Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkles, and then let cool. The popcorn in this delight is considered simply a “condiment”, due to its crunchy texture. But you’ll have yet another way to enjoy this underrated food.
9. POPCORN HELPS “SOAK UP” BEER – If you’ve ever wondered why bowls of popcorn on bar tops are so popular, wonder no more. While popcorn makes a terrific snack in and of itself, it’s also great for thwarting the belly “rumbles” associated with drinking too much beer. Since popcorn is a high fiber snack, it helps aid in overall digestion.
10. POPCORN IS CHEAP – If you’re trying to figure out another kind of refreshment to set out for your next soiree, look no further. Ordering trays of hor’deurves, wings, and other party delights can put a small dent in the wallet. Furthermore, sometimes these foods are left over at parties. For very informal soirees, choose lighter snacks like popcorn. It’s an incredibly inexpensive way to satisfy munchies, when serving a full meal is not possible.