Popcorn a healthy nutritional treat? I did not know that.

[Dover]

I've limited my intake of popcorn and corn in general having placed it in the 'bad carb'(sugars) category years ago.
I suppose if this information is reliable then I might consider reintroducing it into my snack options. However, I'd only buy the organic popping corn and forego the butter, either air pop it or use a healthy oil and limit the salt. Would avoid the microwave, prepackaged
or movie theatre varieties.


FACTS

Nutrition Info:
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/snacks/5356/2

Popcorn is a whole grain that contains 40 or more nutrients.

-The germ in the popcorn kernel contains all of the B complex vitamins, plus vitamin E, Riboflavin and Thiamine.

-Popcorn has more protein than any other cereal grain

-Popcorn has more iron than eggs, peanuts, spinach, or roast beef!

-The hull and outer layers are rich in iron, phosphorous and protein.

-Popcorn has more phosphorous and fiber than potato chips, ice cream cones, or pretzels

-Popcorn is a colorie counter's delight! Unbuttered popcorn only has between 25 and 55 calories per cup.


Popcorn, a well known "funfood", is considered a wholesome snack by leading medical associations and nutrition professionals:

- The American Dental Association recommends popcorn as a sugar-free snack. Popcorn is listed by the ADA as a suggested sugar free, fat free, and low in calories snack along with several other notables such as apples, pears, celery, plain yogurt, nuts and cheese.

-The National Cancer Institute(NCI), the federal government's cancer prevention agency, suggests fiber in the diet to reduce the risk of some forms of cancer and the American Dietetic Association recommends popcorn as a high fiber snack food in their list of " 10 Great Ways to Fiber Up!" The National Institue of Dental and Craniofacial Research lists popcorn as a smart, low/no-sugar snack. The American Diabetes Association and the American dietetic Association permit popcorn as a starch exchange on weight-control diets, and the Feingold Diet for hyeractive children permits popcorn because it contains no artificial additives.

- Because popcorn contributes to the overall health and maintenance of the body, the American Diabetes Association permit popcorn as a bread exchange on weight control diets.

- Popcorn is listed third out of a list of 11 as eleven Things That Don't Cause Cancer.

-Pocorn aids digestion by providing necessary roughage, also known as fiber.

The experts agree. Popcorn is all-around "good" food-healthy, economical and tasty.

http://www.standardconcessionsupply.com/popcornfacts.html
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How to Season Popcorn With Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast is a non-active form of yeast that the Ancient Egyptians prized for its health-boosting qualities. Rich in amino acids, a complete protein and fantastic source of B complex vitamins, nutritional yeast is a healthy and tasty addition to just about any food, including freshly popped popcorn. A good substitute for achieving a parmesan cheese-type flavor.

Emily's Famous Popcorn Recipe:

Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup unpopped popcorn
1/4 cup butter, melted (optional)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

Directions
Heat oil in a large saucepan or soup pot over medium-high heat. Add popcorn, and place the lid on the pan. Shake to coat kernels with oil. When the corn starts to pop, shake the pan constantly until the popping stops. Remove from heat, and pour popped corn into a large bowl.
Drizzle the melted butter over the corn if using, and sprinkle with yeast, chili powder, cumin and salt. I like to give it a little stir before serving.

Nutritional Information
Amount Per Serving Calories: 223 | Total Fat: 13.9g | Cholesterol: 20mg

Nutritional Information
Emily's Famous Popcorn
Servings Per Recipe: 6

Amount Per Serving

Calories: 223
Total Fat: 13.9g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 265mg
Total Carbs: 21g
Dietary Fiber: 5.5g
Protein: 6g