Experts Agree: This ‘Unhealthy’ Food May Actually Help You Reach Your Goal Weight

Why popcorn is good for weight loss

Next time you're craving something crunchy and savory to tide you over before dinner, don't be afraid to reach for some popcorn! Despite the fact that it may have a reputation for being a junk food favored by couch potatoes, Best says that this high-fiber snack is a good choice for anyone looking to lose weight—as long as it's prepared right.

"Popcorn can be an excellent, nutrient-rich snack food depending on how it is prepared," she tells us. "Popcorn is a whole grain, which is a little-known fact, and therefore an excellent source of fiber and polyphenols." Who knew?!

Polyphenols, which are found in a range of other superfoods, are a type of antioxidant that your body loves. "When we consume them through whole food sources we are aiding our body in ridding itself of free radicals and toxins that can cause cellular damage, leading to inflammation and ultimately chronic illnesses," Best says. By keeping your body protected from that damage and inflammation, you may also be able to lose weight faster.

Then there's the fiber content, which can do wonders for your waistline. "The fiber provided in popcorn helps the body remove cholesterol from the body, thereby reducing this substance that can be harmful for heart health," she points out.

Of course, adding unhealthy ingredients, such as an overload of salt, butter, and inflammatory oils, could negate these benefits. For this reason, it's best to air-pop your popcorn at home and enjoy it with minimal ingredients (maybe just a bit of olive oil and salt) rather than choosing microwavable varieties. Your body will thank you!

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