Popcorn Has Been Hiding Something
A preliminary study on popcorn by University of Scranton (Pennsylvania) chemistry professor Joe Vinson, PhD, reported that this classic snacking grain packs a potent secret inside its shiny, protective kernel.
His findings, presented at the 243rd National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS), show that popcorn holds a more concentrated dose of healthy antioxidant polyphenols than many fruits, vegetables and nuts. A separate finding showed that the popcorn hulls actually contain the highest concentration of polyphenols and fiber.
But don’t trade your five-a-day for popcorn just yet—fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals you can’t get from the corn. Also, note that adding butter and salt can be counterproductive to the anti-inflammatory properties of popcorn. Keep it plain and simple.
This study still needs to undergo the rigors of peer review.
Sandy Todd Webster
For 22 years, Sandy Todd Webster was the chief architect of IDEA's content program - including the award-winning IDEA FITNESS JOURNAL and IDEA FOOD & NUTRITION TIPS - the industry's leading resources for fitness, wellness and nutrition professionals worldwide. She created, launched and nurtured these brands and many others during her productive and purposeful IDEA tenure. Sandy is a Rouxbe-certified professional plant-based cook and a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach who is pursuing a Master's degree in Sustainable Food Systems through The Culinary Institute of America (expected August 2024). She plans to combine these passions with her content expertise to continue inspiring others to make the world a more just, healthy and regenerative place.
