Popcorn Nutrition Facts: A Healthy, Low-Calorie Snack? (2024)

Popcorn is a healthy snack when it’s air-popped and served without ingredients high in fat, salt, or sugar. Popcorn is high in important nutrients, including fiber.

Popcorn is one of the world’s healthiest and most popular snack foods.

It is loaded with important nutrients and offers a variety of health benefits.

However, it is sometimes prepared with large amounts of fat, sugar and salt, which can drive overeating.

For this reason, it is very important to prepare your popcorn the right way.

It can be either super healthy or very unhealthy, depending on how you prepare it.

This article reviews popcorn’s nutrition facts and health effects, both good and bad.

What is popcorn?

Popcorn is a special type of corn that “pops” when exposed to heat.

At the center of each kernel is a small amount of water, which expands when heated and eventually causes the kernel to explode.

The oldest piece of popcorn was discovered in New Mexico and is said to be over 5,000 years old.

Over the years, it has become increasingly popular. It became especially popular during the Great Depression because it was so cheap.

Today around 1.2 billion pounds (500 million kg) are consumed by Americans every year, making it America’s most popular snack food by volume (1).

Summary

Popcorn is a special type of corn that “pops” when exposed to heat. By volume, it is the most popular snack food in America.

Popcorn nutrition facts

Many people don’t realize it, but popcorn is a whole grain food, making it naturally high in several important nutrients.

Many studies link whole grain consumption to health benefits like reduced inflammation and a decreased risk of heart disease (2, 3).

This is the nutrient content of a 100-gram (3.5-oz) serving of air-popped popcorn (4, 5):

  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 9% of the DV.
  • Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 14% of the DV.
  • Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): 9% of the DV.
  • Iron: 18% of the DV.
  • Magnesium: 34% of the DV.
  • Phosphorus: 29% of the DV.
  • Potassium: 7% of the DV.
  • Zinc: 28% of the DV.
  • Copper: 29% of the DV.
  • Manganese: 48% of the DV.

This is coming with a total of 387 calories, 13 grams of protein, 78 grams of carbs and 5 grams of fat.

This serving also contains a whopping 15 grams of fiber, which is extremely high. It makes it one of the world’s best sources of fiber.

Summary

Popcorn is a whole grain food that is high in important nutrients. This includes vitamins, minerals and very high amounts of fiber.

It is high in polyphenol antioxidants

Polyphenols are antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage by free radicals.

A 2019 study showed that popcorn contains very large amounts of polyphenols (6).

Polyphenol are linked to various health benefits. This includes better blood circulation, improved digestive health and a reduced risk of many diseases including hypertension and diabetes (7, 8).

Several studies have also shown that polyphenols may reduce the risk of cancer, including prostate and breast cancer (9, 10).

Summary

Popcorn contains large amounts of polyphenol antioxidants. These are plant compounds that have been linked to many health benefits.

Extremely high in fiber

Popcorn is very high in fiber.

According to research, dietary fiber may reduce the risk of many diseases like heart disease, obesity and type 2 diabetes (11, 12, 13).

Fiber can also help with weight loss and promote digestive health (14, 15, 16).

The recommended daily intake of fiber is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men. However, most people are eating much less than that (17).

100 grams (3.5 ounces) of popcorn contain 15 grams of fiber, which goes a long way towards satisfying your daily fiber requirements (4, 5).

Summary

Popcorn is very high in fiber, which has been linked to several health benefits. This includes weight loss and a decreased risk of many diseases.

Eating it may help with weight loss

Popcorn is high in fiber, relatively low in calories and has a low energy density. These are all characteristics of a weight loss friendly food.

With 31 calories per cup, air-popped popcorn contains much fewer calories than many popular snack foods (4).

One study compared feelings of fullness after eating popcorn and potato chips. They found that 15 calories of popcorn were as filling as 150 calories of potato chips (18).

Because of its low calorie content, low energy density, high fiber content and increased satiety, eating popcorn may help you eat fewer calories and lose weight.

However, moderation is key. Even though it is much more filling than many other snack foods, it can still be fattening if you eat too much of it.

Summary

Popcorn is high in fiber, relatively low in calories and has a low energy density. Eating it in moderation may help with weight loss.

Pre-packaged microwave popcorn may be harmful

There are many ways to enjoy popcorn, but the most convenient and most popular tends to be the pre-packaged microwave variety.

Most microwave bags are lined with a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been associated with a variety of health problems.

These include ADHD, low birth weight and thyroid problems, to name a few (19, 20, 21).

Microwave popcorn may also contain diacetyl, which is a chemical found in artificial butter flavoring.

Although the risk to the general public has not been clearly identified, animal studies continue to show that breathing in diacetyl can damage airways and cause lung diseases (22, 23, 24).

Many brands of microwave popcorn are made using hydrogenated oils, which may still contain traces of harmful partially hydrogenated oils or trans fats.

Studies have linked trans fats to an increased risk of heart disease and other serious diseases, which is why they are no longer allowed to be sold in foods sold in the US (25, 26, 27, 28).

Even if certain brands say they are free of these chemicals, you may still want to avoid them since it’s so easy to make your own healthy popcorn.

Summary

Pre-packaged microwave popcorn often contains PFOA and diacetyl, chemicals that may be harmful. It may also contain traces of trans fats.

Some toppings and preparation methods are a bad idea

Despite all of popcorn’s healthy qualities, the way it is prepared can greatly impact its nutritional quality.

When air-popped, it is naturally low in calories, but some ready-made types are extremely high in calories.

For example, a report by CSPI found that a medium-sized popcorn at a popular movie theater chain had a whopping 1,200 calories – even before factoring in the buttery topping (29).

Varieties bought from movie theaters or stores are often smothered in unhealthy fats, artificial flavorings and high amounts of sugar and salt.

These ingredients not only add a significant amount of calories, but some of them can also be bad for you in other ways.

Summary

Commercially prepared popcorn varieties can be extremely high in calories and unhealthy ingredients.

How to make healthy popcorn

Popcorn made on the stove or in an air-popper are going to be the healthiest options.

Here’s a simple recipe to make healthy popcorn:

Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or coconut oil.
  • 1/2 cup popcorn kernels.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt.

Directions

  1. Place oil and kernels into a large pot and cover it.
  2. Cook over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes or until the popping almost stops.
  3. Remove from heat and pour into a serving bowl.
  4. Season with salt.

Here is a quick video that shows you how to make super healthy popcorn in a matter of minutes:

You can add additional flavor by topping it with fresh herbs or spices. If you want something sweet, try drizzling it with natural nut butter or sprinkling it with cinnamon or shavings of dark chocolate.

For an added health benefit, sprinkle it with nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast has a nutty-cheesy flavor and contains several important nutrients, including protein, fiber, B-vitamins and several minerals (30).

Summary

The healthiest way to make popcorn is in a pot or air-popper machine. There are several ways to add flavor without compromising its healthfulness.

Real popcorn is super healthy

Popcorn is high in several important nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals and polyphenol antioxidants. Not only that, but it is also incredibly tasty and one of the world’s best sources of fiber.

At the end of the day, popcorn is very healthy and consuming it in moderation may even help with weight loss.

Popcorn Nutrition Facts: A Healthy, Low-Calorie Snack? (2024)

FAQs

Popcorn Nutrition Facts: A Healthy, Low-Calorie Snack? ›

This is coming with a total of 110 calories, 3.36 grams of protein, 22.1 grams of carbs and 1.29 grams of fat. This serving also contains a whopping 4.11 grams of fiber, which is extremely high. It makes it one of the world's best sources of fiber. Popcorn is a whole grain food that is high in important nutrients.

Is popcorn a healthy low-calorie snack? ›

Yes, popcorn is fun, but it's also healthy. Popcorn is a whole grain and a good source of fiber. And 3 cups of plain, air-popped popcorn weighs in at only about 95 calories.

Is popcorn healthy to lose weight? ›

Popcorn can indeed be a valuable addition to a weight loss diet. Its low-calorie, high-fibre, and whole-grain characteristics make it a filling and nutritious snack option. If you are looking to lose weight, it is essential to consume popcorn healthily, without excessive butter, oil, or sugar.

Why is popcorn the healthiest snack? ›

In addition to being high in fiber, popcorn also contains phenolic acids, a type of antioxidant. In addition, popcorn is a whole grain, an important food group that may reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension in humans. Whole grains are known to offer many health benefits to humans.

Is popcorn good or bad for you? ›

When it's air-popped and lightly seasoned, popcorn is an efficiently healthy snack. That's because it is a whole grain, and high-fiber whole grains have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease, diabetes, some cancers and other health problems.

What is the healthiest popcorn to eat? ›

The 10 Best Healthy Popcorn Brands of 2022, According to...
  • How We Chose.
  • Skinny Pop Original.
  • Lesser Evil Himalayan Pink Salt.
  • Quinn Aged Parmesan and Rosemary.
  • Boom Chicka Pop Sweet and Salty Kettle Corn.
  • Bjorn Qorn.
  • Pipcorn Truffle Mini Popcorn.
  • Newman's Own Organic Touch of Butter.
Sep 27, 2022

Can I eat popcorn every day? ›

Even though popcorn is healthy, it is possible to eat too much of it. Both dietitians say that eating an excessive amount of popcorn can lead to bloating, gas and constipation because of its high-fiber content—especially for people who aren't used to eating a lot of fiber.

Does popcorn fight belly fat? ›

Popcorn is a great flat-belly snack as long as you choose the air-popped version—you can eat a 3-cup portion for only 100 calories! Not only that, but popcorn is also a whole grain, and studies show that people who eat whole grains have less belly fat than those who eat refined grains.

Is bagged popcorn bad for you? ›

Even so, microwave popcorn can be extremely high in saturated fat and sodium, both of which increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. To reduce your risk, either choose "light" microwave popcorn or use an air popper. You should also go light on the salt and butter, or skip them altogether. American Cancer Society.

Is popcorn a good or bad carb? ›

Health benefits of eating popcorn

It's also a good source of carbohydrates and dietary fiber. It's loaded with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals. The antioxidant lignans found in popcorn may help protect against cancer. Eating popcorn can help prevent heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels.

Is popcorn better for you than potato chips? ›

They found that 15 calories of popcorn were as filling as 150 calories of potato chips ( 18 ). Because of its low calorie content, low energy density, high fiber content and increased satiety, eating popcorn may help you eat fewer calories and lose weight.

Is popcorn bad for cholesterol? ›

Is popcorn low in cholesterol? Popcorn without added sugar or salt may have low levels of cholesterol. However, popcorn can have high levels of cholesterol if people prepare it with butter or a sugary coating, such as caramel.

What snack is healthier than popcorn? ›

Even though the calorie count seems comparative with popcorn, if you are looking for a heart healthy1 snack, almonds are the way to go. vs. Nutrition information based on 1oz (28g) serving.

Is popcorn bad for your stomach or intestines? ›

Unlike some snacks that may be heavy or greasy, popcorn is a light and easily digestible snack. It is gentle on the digestive system, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. Popcorn is low in fat and contains no cholesterol, which further contributes to its digestive ease.

Is it good to eat popcorn at night? ›

A midnight munchie to get excited about! Popcorn is a whole grain packed with fiber and carbs. Carbohydrates make tryptophan, an amino acid important for sleep, more available to the brain. A study found that food such as popcorn and nuts provided a longer sleep duration than food such as burgers and pizza.

Is yellow or white popcorn healthier? ›

Nutritional Value

Approximately 31 calories and 1.2 grams of fiber are found in one cup of air-popped white popcorn, while 35 calories and 1 gram of fiber are found in one cup of air-popped yellow popcorn. Both varieties of popcorn are regarded as nutritious treats despite these minor variations.

What foods fill you up but are low in calories? ›

The healthiest lower energy-dense choices are foods that are high in protein but low in fat and calories, such as:
  • Beans, peas and lentils, which are also good sources of fiber.
  • Fish.
  • Lean meat and poultry.
  • Low-fat or fat-free dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheese.
  • Egg whites.

What is the lowest calorie snack? ›

Healthy low-calorie snack list
  • Plain Greek yogurt with berries. ...
  • Canned tuna and crackers. ...
  • Roasted chickpeas, or chana. ...
  • Hard boiled eggs. ...
  • Rice cakes topped with almond butter. ...
  • Banana or apple slices with peanut butter (or other nut butter) ...
  • Sweet potato wedges, cooked and seasoned as desired. ...
  • Edamame.
Jun 15, 2023

Can you eat popcorn on a low fat diet? ›

Air-popped, unflavored popcorn is low in calories, fat, and sugar, and high in fiber. This means that when someone eats it as part of a balanced diet, popcorn can help them lose weight.

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