Staying Fit & Healthy: Plain Popcorn Or Butter Popcorn?

Popcorn is by far one of the healthiest snacks around. For centuries, people have crunched and munched down on this whole-grain goodness. But with everyone watching their waistline now, is it better to eat plain popcorn or butter popcorn? Do you have to sacrifice taste to still eat healthy?

Let’s start with the basics. A cup of plain oil-popped popcorn is a mere 55-calories. Aside from the fact that this whole grain treat is low in caloric value, it also boasts over 40 vitamins and nutrients ranging from thiamine to vitamin E, riboflavin and all (yes, all) the B vitamins. This treasure trove of fiber works to protect your heart, has more iron in it than the eggs you had for breakfast, or the roast beef sandwich you had for lunch, and is naturally low in fat.

That’s before you add anything. Plain popcorn by far is much healthier for you than butter popcorn. Add butter to the mix and you are adding 102 calories, just from one pat of butter! To keep your health on track, it’s better to eat plain popcorn and add your own seasonings. You can even buy plain popcorn in bags or popcorn tins to have on hand. It’s fun creating your own popcorn masterpiece!

At first sight, plain popcorn may seem a bit unappealing when you compare it to butter popcorn. But there are ways to make your popcorn really zing and not increase your cholesterol or fat intake. Toppings such as garlic powder, grated parmesan cheese, or sea salt and cracked pepper really make an impact on the taste and won’t have you tipping the scales. Some people choose to put hot sauce or sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on their plain popcorn. You really can have fun with it and control the portion sizes.

To save time in the kitchen and to always have popcorn on hand for a snack, look into gourmet plain popcorn. The kernels are usually much bigger than what you pop at home and popcorn makers are mindful that having plain popcorn is essential to people who want to eat healthy. Sure you can always splurge every once in awhile and have some butter popcorn in moderation. But to stay in control of salt intake, fat and calorie intake, the best way to eat for your health and still have something yummy is to enjoy a fresh bag of plain popcorn!