Is popcorn really healthy?

You’ve likely heard that popcorn makes a good healthy snack. Just how true is that statement?

Popcorn is one of the healthiest snacks you can eat. At least, that’s something many diet plans, such as Weight Watchers and Slimming World, will have you believe. The view comes from the fact that popcorn is pretty much air with minimal calories.

For the most part, that is true. In its purest form, popcorn is healthy and whole grain. It’s also full of antioxidants that will help to protect your body’s cells and is low in calories. When compared to most other items you’re going to snack on, popcorn is the way to go.

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But the movie theater popcorn isn’t healthy

Before you jump at the chance for the large tubs of movie theater popcorn or you go out and buy the microwavable bags of butter or cheesy popcorn, this isn’t the stuff we’re talking about. That stuff really isn’t healthy because of the toppings added to it. You can eat half-a-day’s worth of sodium and saturated fat in one tub of the popcorn from the movie theater.

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The healthy stuff is the plain stuff. The non-flavored bags that you get in the store or the plain kernels you buy to pop your own in the house.

(Photo by Jonathan Leibson/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures)

Healthy doesn’t need to be boring

Just because plain popcorn is the healthiest doesn’t mean you can only opt for that. You can add your own flavors to it. This is where your spices and herbs will become extremely popular in the house. You can add garlic powder if you want something savory or a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg if you want something sweet.

By making your own, you’ll find flavors that you enjoy the most. This is a great way to bring life to your home movie snacks, while keeping everyone healthy and happy.

Next: Why vegan is easier than you think

What toppings do you like on yours? What toppings will you try next? Share your thoughts in the comments below.