Popcorn: A snack for health

Amazing health benefits are to be found in and obtained from consuming the enjoyable, unassuming snack that is popcorn. Popcorn, when ‘appropriately’ seasoned, provides constituents that support the health and functioning of the colon. The Standard ‘American’ Diet is implicated in increased incidence of colorectal cancer resultant from poor colon health. Weight Management can be challenging as many individuals result to chemical means for that endeavor. Popcorn creates a state of satiety the minimizes episodic craving that can contribute to weight gain. Heart Physiology is positively affected by popcorn consumption. Popcorn, as a functional whole grain, is verified as beneficial to heart health. 

Popcorn is a most ubiquitous part of the snack continuum in the United States of America. It is something that many in the U.S.A. become accustomed to enjoying from a young age. Yet, there is probably minimal reflection given as to how good popcorn actually is for the body. With all of the iterations of popcorn that are made available, the benefits actually become clouded over. Different flavorings, different combinations, different coverings, all go toward making popcorn more palatable. It is made more enjoyable due to the manipulation of sugar, salt and fat ratios by various food manufacturers. (Michael Moss) This drive to infuse more palatability into popcorn does detract from the health benefits that are therefrom obtainable. Popcorn can be made in a way that maximizes the therein inherent health benefits 

Popcorn, as a whole grain, is linked with better colon function, especially in elderly persons. The digestive system is of major importance due to the nutrient intake, energy processing, waste disposal roles for which it is responsible. The system can be negatively affected or positively influenced depending upon the quality of foods that are ingested. The fiber from popcorn is in a light airy form (from air popping). Popcorn digests into a soluble fiber gel that contributes to overall colon health. It is instrumental in forestalling or preventing diverticulosis and other associated maladies. The insoluble fiber provided by popcorn is probiotic  which allows gut bacteria to produce short-chain fatty acids. These nourish the colon lining, reduce inflammation, strengthen gut barrier, leading to better absorption. 

Dietary cravings that contribute to unwanted weight gain / difficulty in weight loss are reduced by the bulk effect of popcorn. Popcorn, when properly prepared, poses minimal impact upon your blood sugar. The fiber content slows down the rate of carbohydrate breakdown, which curtails sugar released into the bloodstream. These points are very important when diabetes is a factor. Whole grain (popcorn) consumption facilitates better blood sugar control because insulin sensitivity is increased. This can significantly lower type 2 diabetes risk. The gel structure of popcorn in the digestive tract, slows digestion and reduces cravings (which stabilizes blood sugar). It, in effect, creates a Low Glycemic Load. This provides a setting for better weight loss / control. 

Whole Grain (popcorn) consumption is facilitatory to fewer heart attacks, fewer strokes and lower rates of high blood pressure. The popcorn outer hull provides antioxidants, polyphenols, which can mitigate oxidative stress cardiovascular inflammation, chronic inflammation. These maladies can arise from medications, pollution, or metabolic processes. Oxidative stress creates inflammation which causes damage to cells, proteins, and DNA. This can lead to heart disease, diabetes, memory loss and cancers. Polyphenols reduce free radicals (unstable particles in the body) and improve endothelial function. Endothelium is a single layer of cells lining various organs and cavities of the body. The fiber composition, also, binds to LDL cholesterol which can be a factor in reducing plaque in the arteries. 

Taking heart health seriously means that one approach their habits of consumption in ways that support that end. Of the many foods can improve function of the heart, popcorn is one of the most simple, easy to prepare, easy to appreciate sources that are available. Weight issues are a struggle for many due to lifestyle choices: improper eating, lack of movement, and insufficient rest. Popcorn can be assimilated by the body such that a feelings of fullness and satiety are induced; thereby curbing tendencies to overeat. All consumed food has an effect, either deleterious or beneficial, on the colon. Whole grains such as popcorn contribute to colon health by providing constituents that allay oxidative stress. Popcorn is easy to prepare but be overly season in a manner that significantly diminishes the easily Preparing popcorn in a way that is simultaneously, delectably flavorful and unquestioningly healthful allows the benefits to be part of the enjoyment.