Popcorn is loaded with many vitamins and minerals. In this study, I present the key ingredients and their significance:
• Manganese. One earlier clinical trial by Davidsson et al. (1995) found that an essential trace element such as manganese occurs in high amounts in whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Nevertheless, it’s poorly engrossed from corn due to this vegetable’s phytic acid content.
• Phosphorus. Found in decent amounts in both popcorn and sweet corn, phosphorus is a mineral that plays an important role in the growth and maintenance of body tissues.
• Magnesium. Two studies (Guasch-Ferré et al. 2013; Rosanoff et al. 2012) found that poor levels of this significant mineral could increase our risk of numerous chronic illnesses, such as heart disease.
• Zinc.( King, C 2011; Schlemmer et al. 2009) found that zinc has many essential functions in the body. As a result of phytic acid in corn, its absorption may be poor.
• Copper. Two studies (Nath, R, 1997; Klevay, L.M, 2000) found that as an antioxidant trace element, copper is normally low in the Western diet. Hence, insufficient intake may have adverse effects on heart health.
Popcorn is a special variety of corn that pops when exposed to heat. This happens when water, trapped in its centre, turns to steam, creating internal pressure, which makes the kernels explode. A highly popular snack, popcorn is one of the most common whole-grain foods in the United States.
One study by Grandjean et al.( 2008) found that popcorn is one of the few whole grains consumed on its own as a snack. Normally, whole grains are eaten as food ingredients, such as in bread and tortillas.
Two studies ( Liu et al. 1999; Priebe et al. 2008) also found that Whole-grain foods could have numerous health benefits, such as the reduced risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
This notwithstanding, Priebe et al.(2008) study found that regular
popcorn consumption has not been linked to improved heart health.
Three studies (Stender and Dyerberg; 2004; Graudal et al. 2014; Lutsey et al. 2008) found that though popcorn is healthy on its own, manufacturers often add high-calorie cooking oils and salt. Also, it is often consumed with sugary soft drinks which could harm our health over a period. You can enjoy popcorn by preparing it in the open air without adding oils and additives.
The writer is a Professor of Naturopathic Healthcare, President, of Nyarkotey College of Holistic Medicine & Technology (NUCHMT)/African Naturopathic Foundation. E-mail: professor40naturopathy@gmail. com Visit-profnyarkotey.com for more information.
