Popcorn Packs More Antioxidants Than Fruits, Veggies

SCRANTON, Pa.Popcorns reputation as a healthy snack food moved up a notch after new research presented at the 243rd National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS) revealed the tasty movie staple contains higher amounts of polyphenols than fruits and vegetables.

Researchers at the University of Scranton found the polyphenols are more concentrated in popcorn, which averages only about 4% water, while polyphenols are diluted in the 90% water that makes up many fruits and vegetables. They also discovered the hulls of the popcorn actually have the highest concentration of polyphenols and fiber.

According to the findings, one serving of popcorn provides more than 70% of the daily intake of whole grain. Data also revealed the amount of polyphenols found in popcorn was up to 300 mg a serving compared to 114 mg for a serving of sweet corn and 160 mg for all fruits per serving. In addition, one serving of popcorn would provide 13% of an average intake of polyphenols a day per person in the United States. Fruits provide 255 mg per day of polyphenols and vegetables provide 218 mg per day to the average U.S. diet.

Need another reason to eat popcorn? Research presented at the 2010 Annual Scientific Meeting of the Obesity Society found eating a 100-calorie portion of low-fat popcorn helped dieters adhere to a reduced-calorie diet program while still feeling full and satisfied.