Health Benefits of Popcorn

Health Benefits of Popcorn

While waiting for spring planting I decided to do some research on the health benefits of popcorn – in particular, really good popcorn!

Popcorn is, of course, rich in fiber with over 21 grams per service, a whopping amount – in fact if we paid enough money to the Whole Grains council, we could display their logo as a top tier fiber provider.

In addition to a healthy dose of fiber, popcorn also contains large amounts of polyphenols, or antioxidants. In some cases, popcorn has more antioxidants than most fruits and vegetables. In a 2012 study presented in San Diego at the American Chemical Society Spring meeting, 4 kinds of popcorn were tested with antioxidants ranging from 242 – 363 mg per serving – most fruits by comparison were around 160 mg of polyphenols per serving. In addition, popcorn is highly concentrated due to the low moisture content – usually around a few percent in an edible serving.

Manganese, magnesium and phosphorus are three recommended daily intake minerals and a small 3.5g serving of popcorn contains 56%, 36% and 36% respectively. In addition, this serving size provides 32% of daily recommended zinc, and copper, niacin, pyridoxine and potassium provide just under 10% each. Popcorn also retains the endosperm, germ and bran throughout the growing, harvesting, cleaning and popping rituals guaranteeing the fiber is going to work in your body to regulate cholesterol.

Thus, popcorn contains nutrients and compounds associated with regulated blood sugar, improved digestion, weight loss, reduced cholesterol levels, and cancer prevention.