What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Microwave Popcorn?

SadaNews - Microwave popcorn is an easy-to-prepare snack rich in fiber, but it also contains high levels of salt and unhealthy fats.

Here’s what may happen to your body if you make microwave popcorn a staple in your diet, according to the health and nutrition site "Health."

Approaching Your Daily Fiber Goal

Microwave popcorn is a snack that helps increase fiber levels in your body. A full bag (87 grams) of popcorn contains about 9 grams of fiber. Adults need to consume between 22 to 34 grams of fiber daily, depending on age and gender. Fiber is an essential nutrient for a healthy diet, and it has been linked to improved gut health, stable blood sugar levels, weight management, and other benefits.

Increase in Micronutrients

Popcorn is a whole grain, which means it contains a number of beneficial nutrients; in addition to protein and fiber, popcorn is also high in micronutrients, including:

Selenium: An essential mineral that plays a role in thyroid hormone production, DNA formation, and other bodily processes.

Magnesium: Like other grains, popcorn is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that supports muscle and nerve function, bone health, and more.

Iron: A mineral that helps the body transport oxygen through the blood and supports healthy growth.

Increased Sodium Intake

The sodium content is one of the major nutritional concerns related to microwave popcorn. Sodium is a mineral found in salt and other ingredients like baking soda. The amount of salt in popcorn increases the likelihood of consuming excess sodium throughout the day, which raises the risk of high blood pressure, potentially leading to heart disease and stroke.

More Unhealthy Fats

Microwave popcorn contains a significant amount of fat, nearly half of which is healthy unsaturated fat. The remainder is considered unhealthy fat. These fats raise levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. This increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, weight gain, and other health problems.