Everyone loves a bowl of buttered and salted hot popcorn to munch on while watching a movie. But do you know how many calories are there in just 2 tbsp unpopped (35 g) of Gourmet Popping Corn with some butter? It's a whopping 170 calories!

Popcorn may be a healthier snack as compared to chips and candy, but it can still derail your diet if you don't watch your portion sizes. In this article, we will look at the nutritional content of popping corn, factors affecting its calorie count, cooking it with butter, alternative options for butter, toppings that add calories, nutritional benefits, the best time to eat popcorn, and how to store it.

But don't worry, we have some tips for making a healthy and satisfying bowl of popcorn without ruining your diet.

Know Your Serving Size

A serving size for unpopped popcorn is approximately 2 tbsp (35g) and contains 170 calories. But, once popped, it can yield up to 5-6 cups of popcorn which more than doubles the portion size on calorie intake. It's essential to know your serving sizes to avoid overindulging. To put it in perspective, a typical movie theatre popcorn cup with butter contains over 900 calories! That's why it's crucial to know your portion sizes and prefer making your popcorn at home where you can use healthier alternatives for toppings. A healthy popcorn snack can have a reasonable portion size of 1-3 cups, and you can add some flavor and nutritional value with herbs or spices instead of butter.

The Nutritional Content of Popping Corn

Popping corn kernels are a whole grain that contains dietary fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Untransformed popping corn is essentially low in calories with only approximately 31 calories per cup (8gms) However, once popped and saturated with different types of toppings such as butter or caramel, the calorie count can increase drastically. Furthermore, microwave popcorns from outside can have even more calories mixed with unhealthy additives such as artificial flavors, aromas, and excess salt or sugar. Therefore, it's important to opt for natural, unprocessed popping corn kernels, and make popcorn at home to control the ingredients and nutritional value.

Factors Affecting Calorie Count of Popping Corn

Several factors can determine the calorie count of popping corn, such as portion size, the amount of oil or butter used for popping, and any toppings used afterward. Here are some factors that can affect its calorie count: 1. Portion Size 2. Type of popping kernels used 3. Method of popping such as air popping or using a microwave 4. Quantity of butter or oil used for popping 5. Choice of toppings added Being mindful of these factors and making conscious choices can help you enjoy your popcorn without overindulging in calories.

How to Cook Popping Corn with Butter?

Butter is a classic topping for popcorn, but it's also high in calories and saturated fats. Here's how you can cook popcorn with butter and still keep it healthy: 1. Add 1-2 teaspoons of organic, grass-fed butter or ghee to a pan and let it melt over medium heat. 2. Once the butter has melted entirely, add in the popping kernels and stir well to coat them. 3. Cover the pot with a lid and wait a few minutes for the kernels to pop. 4. Once the popping stops, take the pot off the heat. You can add some herbs or spices to the melted butter for added flavor and nutritional benefits.

Tips for Making a Healthy Popped Corn Snack

Here are some tips for making a healthy and satisfying bowl of popcorn: 1. Use natural, unprocessed popping kernels 2. Air pop your popcorn to avoid adding oil or butter 3. If using oil or butter, opt for healthy fats like coconut oil or organic butter 4. Flavor your popcorn with herbs, spices, or nutritional yeast instead of butter or caramel 5. Watch your portion sizes and avoid mindless munching. Remember that popcorn is an excellent whole-grain snack, but it's essential to be mindful of portion sizes and toppings you use.

Butter Alternatives for Popping Corn

Butter may be a classic topping for popcorn, but there are other healthy options that can add flavor and nutritional value. Here are some butter alternatives to try: 1. Coconut oil 2. Olive oil 3. Flavored vinegar or lemon juice 4. Nutritional yeast 5. Herbs and spices All these options add taste and nutritional value without weighing down on calorie count.

Calorie Count Comparison of Different Toppings

Toppings can add flavor and nutritional value to your popcorn, but it's essential to keep in mind their calorie content. Here is a comparison of different toppings and their calorie count per tablespoon: 1. Butter - 102 calories 2. Coconut oil - 117 calories 3. Olive oil - 119 calories 4. Caramel sauce - 102 calories 5. Cheese - 57 calories 6. Nutritional Yeast - 20 calories Knowing the difference in calorie values of different toppings can help you make a conscious and informed choice when it comes to your popcorn.

Popping Corn Nutritional Benefits

Popcorn is low in calories and high in dietary fiber, which makes it an excellent snack option for weight management. Here are some nutritional benefits of popping corn: 1. Packed with dietary fiber, which slows digestion and keeps you full for longer periods 2. Contains whole grain, which ensures optimal cardiovascular health 3. Rich in vitamins and minerals, such as Iron Vitamin minerals and antioxidants. Popcorn also contains a high level of polyphenol antioxidants, which helps lower cholesterol levels and prevents cancer growth. However, these levels are likely to decrease once transformed, processed or added to a lot of additives and flavours or toppings.

The Best Time for Eating Popping Corn?

Snacking on popcorn can satisfy your cravings and keep you full for longer. But timing also plays a role in reaping the maximum benefits of this whole-grain snack. It's best to eat popcorn in between meals or as a mid-day snack to keep you energized and full. Avoid eating too close to bedtime, as it can interfere with a good night's sleep. But overall, it's essential to listen to your body's cues and enjoy your popcorn in moderation as a part of a balanced diet.

How to store Popping Corn?

Popping corn kernels have a long shelf life if stored appropriately. Here are some tips for storing your popcorn: 1. Keep it in a cool and dry place away from moisture and heat 2. Use airtight containers or seals to prevent bugs or contamination 3. Avoid keeping it in areas with strong odors as it can easily absorb them. Making sure that the popping corn kernels are adequately stored can ensure optimal freshness and nutritional value when it's popped.