Loaded with benefits, popcorn is the healthiest snack you can think of

Astonished? But its true! A crunchy and savoury treat, popcorn is the perfect healthy snack. We are talking about our regular stove made popcorn and not the microwaved, butter and salt loaded ones. Here are 8 surprising health benefits of popcorn that will make you grab another bowlful.

Rich in antioxidants popcorn provides our bodies with a comfortable dose of polyphenols. The same block enzymes, which cancer cells need to grow.

Eating popcorn is a healthy alternative that can also prevent inflammation & plaque buildup. Popcorn consumption, together with a balanced diet, can boost your intake of antioxidants to keep you healthy.

It may help to fight against several other issues like aging and the formation of Alzheimer's, wrinkles, and hair loss.

Popcorn is made of 100% natural whole grain. Whole-grain snacks have a lot of benefits over fried chips. The ability to relieve constipation comes from insoluble fibers, which help in keeping our digestive system healthy.

A serving of 100 grams of popcorn has 11 grams of protein which is more than in your regular potato chips or even some veggies.

Popcorn is gluten-free. Finely ground, it can be used in place of breadcrumbs for an amazing crunchy coating on chicken and fish.

Surprisingly, that little kernel of popcorn contains a wealth of hidden nutrition. According to the USDA, one ounce of popcorn contains 0.9 mg of iron, whereas, one cup of raw spinach has 0.8 mg of iron. So, those who don't like eating spinach, now have another option on their list.

Popcorn also contains lutein, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin, all of which can boost the health of your eyes.

For all the weight watchers, popcorn is a great snack. Low in calories, sugar-free, and fat-free, popcorn contains just 31g of calories in 1 cup of serving. So, popcorn can be a great option if you want to shed a few pounds.

Air-popped popcorn has a glycemic index score of 55. That puts it near the upper end of low-GI foods, U.S. Department of Agriculture says. A low-GI reading is desirable because foods with a lower score improve both glucose and lipid levels for people with diabetes.

If you have those sudden hunger pangs at unusual time then, popcorn is your saviour. Popped corn is mostly air, which makes it highly effective for staving off hunger cravings without damaging your diet.

Popcorn can be extremely healthy for you. A good source of fibre, B vitamins, magnesium, and phosphorus, it is also thought to increase healthy gut flora, which can ward off diabetes, heart disease, and chronic inflammation.