Popcorn is one of the first foods that come to mind when someone mentions healthy snacks but is it really that great for your health? Despite its long list of nutritional benefits, popcorn isn’t as healthy as you’d like to believe, but you can use these tips and tricks to make them a little bit healthier.
Preparation Method
The preparation method that you’re using can make or break your popcorn. Movie theater popcorn and microwaved popcorn are best avoided because they’re packed with calories. If you want to keep your popcorn on the healthy side, air-popping them is the best possible option because you’re in control of all the ingredients being added to the mix.
Smaller Portions
Many “healthy” snacks are only healthy if you consume them in moderation and that happens to be the case with popcorn. Keep in mind that one cup of air-popped popcorn usually contains around 30 calories and avoid going overboard when eating this snack.
Extra Toppings
Most people can’t imagine eating popcorn without extra salt, butter, and flavorings, but these toppings can completely diminish the healthy properties of this snack. They’re best avoided because you’re upping the fat, calorie, and sugar content of your popcorn by using them.
